By Lauryne Akoth
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support athletes.
Speaking at Kiptum’s funeral service, he asserted that the government will continue to provide a stable and secure environment for youths to explore their talents, showcasing them and scaling the global terrain.
He further added that there is a need for the country to remain peaceful with a steady economic growth trajectory for the youth to achieve their dreams in sports and arts.
“I recognize and appreciate President Ruto’s government for continuously championing peace, security, and stability that anchors the opportunities that bound amongst Kenyans.” Said Mudavadi.
Mudavadi eulogized Kiptum as a young upcoming marathoner whose star had started shining but which had been abruptly shattered.
He said many young athletes had already started emulating Kiptum and hoped that one day they would also rise to the global athletic stage.
“I condole with the family of Kelvin Kiptum, a flame that has been blown out by an unfortunate accident just a few days ago,” he remarked.
“It is a difficult moment for the family, the people of Chepkorio and Elgeyo Marakwet County, and the entire athletics fraternity, but what we would wish and pray is that one day the record that Kiptum was planning to break, will be broken by his children Precious and Caleb,” he added.
Mudavadi said Kiptum had already made an indelible mark in the athletics field and his win at the Chicago Marathon in October 2023 was a sign that he was rising to a meteoric global fame.
Kiptum died aged 24, and he has left behind a widow Asenath Rotich, and two children Precious and Caleb