From taxi driver to record-breaking athlete: Ruto honours Ian Kahinga with state award
By Kiprono Keileb, December 12, 2025Kenya has honoured one of its most inspiring sports heroes, Ian Kahinga, whose journey from a taxi driver in Nyahururu to a world-record-breaking athlete has captured the nation’s imagination.
Kahinga was awarded the prestigious Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) during the conferment of State Honours and Awards at State House on Friday, December 12, 2025, following the 2025 Jamhuri Day celebrations held at Nyayo Stadium.
The recognition places Kahinga among Kenyans whose actions and achievements have brought pride to the country on the global stage. His story stands out not just for the medals he won, but for the barriers he broke along the way, especially as a member of Kenya’s deaf community.
Rise to glory
Kahinga rose to international fame after an extraordinary performance at the Deaf Olympics in Tokyo, where he won two gold medals and shattered the world record in the men’s 10,000 metres.
His achievement stunned the athletics world and reinforced Kenya’s long-standing reputation as a distance-running powerhouse.
Beyond the medals and records, Kahinga’s journey has resonated deeply with ordinary Kenyans. By day, he earned a living as a taxi driver in Nyahururu. By dedication, discipline, and belief in himself, he transformed his life and proved that greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places.
His success has inspired young athletes across the country, particularly those living with disabilities, to believe that limitations do not define destiny.
Speaking during the awards ceremony, a State House captured the spirit of Kahinga’s journey and why it deserved national recognition.
“Ian Kahinga’s story is one of resilience, talent and one of the extraordinary triumph. The taxi driver from Nyahururu and one of the proud members of Kenya’s deaf community, Ian, defies all odds to win two gold medals at the Deaf Olympics in Tokyo, shattering the world record in the men’s 10,000M,” Mike Gitonga, official State House MC, announced.
The statement highlighted how Kahinga’s success goes beyond personal achievement to national inspiration.
“His outstanding achievements have inspired countless young athletes, proving that disability is never a barrier to greatness,” a commentator said
The honour also recognised the emotional and symbolic weight of his victory for the country.
“With every stride, he carries a message of courage and hope, uplifting the spirit of the nation. His historic accomplishments and inspiration he brings to Kenya, he is awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW),” a commentator said