This archive report was first published on 25 November 2019.
Kenya's sports industry has been a source of national pride, with athletes like Eliud Kipchoge and Brigit Kosgei breaking world records and captivating international audiences. However, beneath the surface of this success lies a complex web of corruption and neglect.
As I reflect on the recent achievements of our athletes, I am reminded of the words of Eliud Kipchoge, who spoke about inspiring others and showing Kenyans that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. His message resonated deeply, and it is a sentiment that is echoed by many of our sportsmen and women.
But despite their success, our athletes often find themselves stranded or unsupported, with government officials more concerned with taking photographs in uniforms than providing the necessary resources for our sportsmen and women. It is a sad reality that highlights the disconnect between our national pride and the recognition and support that our athletes deserve.
As we celebrate our athletes' achievements, we must also acknowledge the corruption and neglect that plagues our sports industry. The case of Zarika, the Kenyan female boxer who expressed her happiness at losing to a Mexican opponent, is a poignant example of the frustration and disillusionment that many of our athletes feel.
It is time for us to match our national pride with recognition and support for our sportsmen and women. We must hold our government officials accountable for their promises and provide the necessary resources for our athletes to succeed. Only then can we truly say that we value and appreciate the contributions of our sportsmen and women.
Nerima Wako-Ojiwa is executive director of Siasa Place. Twitter: @NerimaW
