The Government is committed to changing the fortunes of active and retired athletes as part of its quest to improve the welfare of its most prized assets, CS Ababu Namwamba has said.
Speaking at the burial ceremony of the late legendary athlete Henry Rono, the CS reiterated the government’s plans to establish universal health coverage for retired athletes that will ensure they enjoy affordable healthcare upon retirement.
Additionally, CS Ababu noted that the government through his Ministry had created an endowment fund for athletes, injecting Ksh 20 million as the seed fund to cater for athletes’ welfare.
He added that his ministry was determined to right the previous injustices faced by our athletes, assuring of the government’s renewed efforts to recognize them while still alive and active.
“Our athletes are our golden goose that lay the golden egg. They are our greatest export and branding asset for Kenya,” he observed.
“We have been deliberate and intentional in recognizing them, with revorwed rewards system, which we are determined to make it better.”
“Our Hongera Awards has seen us honour our legends with cash awards and as a ministry we are committed to improving this reward for the benefit of our golden assets,” he added.
PS Eng. Tum who accompanied the CS noted “As the accounting officer, under the guidance of the CS, we will support all our athletes, those still active and once they retire.”
