Ruto says more than 200 Kenyan athletes are based in Japan
By Cy Muganda, August 20, 2025President William Ruto has revealed that more than 200 Kenyan athletes are currently engaged in Japanese sporting institutions, highlighting the growing sporting ties between the two nations.
Addressing the Yokohama City Assembly during his visit to Japan on August 20, 2025, Ruto emphasised the importance of people-to-people partnerships in strengthening international relations and fostering mutual understanding.
“Already, vibrant partnerships exist between Kenya and Yokohama. Today, more than 200 Kenyan athletes are engaged in Japanese sporting institutions, strengthening people-to-people ties and inspiring new generations,” Ruto told the assembly.
Ruto described the athletic collaboration as a remarkable story of shared sporting passion and excellence that demonstrates the power of sports diplomacy in building lasting international relationships.
“Sports is another powerful channel of connection between Kenya and Japan. Since the 1980s, our athletic ties have flourished,” he stated.
Japan-Kenya sporting legacy
In his address, Ruto paid special tribute to Douglas Wakihuri, who he says first trained in Japan, noting that his example continues to inspire athletes from both nations.
“I pay tribute to Douglas Wakihuri, the legendary Kenyan marathoner who blazed the trails as the first Kenyan athlete to train and work in Japan. His example inspires hundreds of other athletes to follow in his footsteps,” Ruto noted.
Ruto also encouraged Japanese sporting clubs across various disciplines to explore Kenya’s rich pool of athletic talent and expertise.
“I want to encourage Japanese sporting clubs in rugby, volleyball, football, and other disciplines to explore Kenya’s pool of talent and expertise,” he urged..
Additionally, the head of state extended an invitation for Japanese partners to participate in Kenya’s cultural events, including school drama and music festivals.
“I also invite our Japanese partners to participate in our school’s drama and music festivals, which showcase a rich talent and provide a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and talent development while forming a strong base for global understanding of cultures,” he explained.
People-to-people partnerships
Ruto emphasised that sporting collaboration forms part of broader people-to-people partnerships that break down cultural barriers and build mutual understanding.
“When people meet, learn from each other, and share experiences, they become formidable, credible ambassadors of peace, mutual understanding, and prosperity,” he noted.
He highlighted how such interactions break down stereotypes, deepen cultural understanding, bridge divides, prevent conflict, and nurture trust between the two nations.
He described the sporting ties as part of the broader theme of “People to People Partnership for Shared Prosperity” that captures the spirit of international cooperation between Kenya and Japan.
“Ultimately, relationships between nations must serve the common good of their citizens. These ties are well cultivated through cultural exchanges, educational programs, sporting collaboration, and knowledge sharing,” he stated.