This archive report was first published on 13 July 2019.
The Kenya Heroes Act of 2014 was enacted to recognize and support the country's sports legends, but it seems to have fallen short of its intended purpose.
Joe Kadenge's recent passing is a stark reminder of the struggles many of these heroes face. Despite bringing fame and glory to Kenya through their sporting prowess, they often live in poverty and die without recognition or support.
It is puzzling that when disaster strikes, politicians scramble to organize fundraisers for the burial or to support the bereaved families, yet they were nowhere to be found when these legends needed help during their lifetime.
Renaming the Nyayo National Stadium after Kadenge is a hollow gesture, especially when it could have been done while he was still alive.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's visit to Kadenge in the hospital and his donation of cash for his medical expenses are commendable, but more needs to be done to appreciate Kenya's sports legends.
The Sports ministry under Amina Mohamed should create a structure to support these heroes and heroines, and county governments that allocate millions of shillings to sports should also come to their assistance.
