Ruto pledges sports infrastructure boost as Kenya celebrates Mashujaa Day

President William Ruto has pledged to strengthen Kenya’s sporting infrastructure, promising to complete Kipchoge Keino Stadium with a full canopy in the coming months as the country celebrated Mashujaa Day in Eldoret.

Speaking at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium on Tuesday, Ruto said the government was investing in modern sports facilities to nurture talent, create opportunities for young people and position Kenya as a major destination for international sporting events.

The President highlighted plans to modernize Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and develop the Raila Odinga International Stadium in Talanta City as part of preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.

He said the investments would build on Kenya’s rich sporting heritage while creating the infrastructure needed to welcome international competitions.

“These investments will nurture talent, create opportunities and strengthen our country’s place in international sports,” Ruto said, reiterating his commitment to completing the canopy at the Eldoret stadium.

The Head of State paid tribute to Kenya’s sporting legends, recalling the achievements that established the country as a global athletics powerhouse.

He singled out Wilson Kiprugut, who won Kenya’s first Olympic medal — bronze in the 800 metres at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics — and Kipchoge Keino, who claimed 1,500 metres gold at the 1968 Mexico City Games.

Ruto also celebrated the quartet of Charles Asati, Hezekiah Nyamau, Robert Ouko and Julius Sang, who won Olympic gold in the 4x400 metres relay at the 1972 Munich Games.

He described their triumph as a powerful demonstration of teamwork and national unity, noting that their achievements laid the foundation for generations of Kenyan athletes to excel on the international stage.

The President further praised contemporary stars, including Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, Peres Jepchirchir, Faith Cherotich and Lilian Odira, for carrying Kenya’s flag with distinction and inspiring young people to pursue sporting excellence.

He also honoured athletes whose contributions may not be reflected in record books, saying their dedication had played an important role in sustaining the country’s sporting tradition.

Ruto used the relay race as a metaphor for national development, urging Kenyans to build on the achievements of previous generations while working together towards a shared future.

“In a relay race, no athlete wins alone. Each runner must receive the baton, run their part with courage and determination, and pass it on without losing sight of the team’s purpose,” he said.

The President said Kenya’s ambition should extend beyond producing world-class athletes to hosting major international competitions and welcoming the world to its soil.

His remarks came as Eldoret, widely recognised as the home of champions, hosted the national Mashujaa Day celebrations, providing a fitting backdrop for a tribute to the athletes who have helped raise Kenya’s profile across the globe.

Ruto said the country’s sporting achievements offered important lessons in perseverance, teamwork and collective responsibility, adding that the next phase of development would require Kenyans to carry forward the legacy of those who had come before them.

“ For decades, our athletes have carried Kenya to the world. Now we prepare to bring the world home,” he said.