Kenya’s athletics stars received a grand State welcome on Wednesday morning after their dazzling performance at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo. President William Ruto hosted the triumphant team to a red carpet breakfast at State House, Nairobi, celebrating a medal haul that reaffirmed Kenya’s dominance in global middle and long-distance running.
The team brought home 11 medals — seven gold, two silver, and two bronze — marking one of the nation’s best performances at a World Championships.
Leading the celebrations, President Ruto commended the athletes for their discipline, commitment, and national pride.
“Kenyans, especially the young people, reminded the world that ours is a nation rich in talent, discipline, and resilience,” he said during the ceremony. “You are not just athletes — you are role models, ambassadors of Kenya, and torchbearers of our national pride.”
Among those honoured was Lilian Odira, the newly crowned World 800m champion, who received a personal greeting from the President as she led the gold medallists into the reception.
Also present were standout performers from the men’s and women’s 5,000m, 10,000m, and steeplechase teams, events in which Kenya has historically dominated.
President Ruto called the athletes’ success “a unifying moment” for the country, applauding their determination to lift the national flag high on the world stage.
“As we celebrate your victories, let us also remember that discipline, resilience, and unity are the two gold medals that inspire,” he added.
With the Paris 2026 Olympic Games now less than a year away, attention is quickly turning to how the momentum from Tokyo can be maintained.
Speaking after the event, Athletics Kenya President Jackson Tuwei said the federation would ensure the athletes are well-prepared, both mentally and physically, for the Olympic challenge ahead.
“This team has shown what’s possible. Now, we focus on building from this and preparing even better for Paris,” said Tuwei.
President Ruto used the occasion to highlight the need for greater investment in sports infrastructure and youth talent across the country.
He said the government was working on expanding access to training facilities and talent development programmes in counties often overlooked by national selectors.
“For every gold medal won in Tokyo, there are thousands of young people in our villages who, if given the chance, can match or even exceed that level,” he said.
As the morning sun lit up the lawns of State House, the champions posed for photos with the President, medals glinting around their necks. A breakfast of local dishes was served, and traditional music played softly in the background.
But the message was clear: this wasn’t just about celebration — it was about building a legacy.
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