The government has announced significant increases in cash rewards for Kenyan athletes participating in international events such as the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and Youth Olympics.

The move is part of a broader youth-focused strategy that also aims to tackle mental health challenges linked to financial instability among athletes.

Youth Affairs Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, appearing before the Senate Committee on Youth on Wednesday, July 23, stated that the new rewards took effect from April 2025. Under the revised structure, Olympic gold medalists will now earn Ksh3 million, up from Ksh750,000.

Silver medalists will pocket Ksh2 million, up from Ksh500,000, while bronze winners will receive Ksh1 million, up from Ksh300,000.

“We have reviewed the award for athletics,” Mvurya said. “From April this year, we have approved new rates. For example, the youth who will participate in the Olympics and secure a gold medal, instead of getting Ksh750,000, will now receive Ksh3 million.”

The revised rewards will also benefit athletes in the Commonwealth Games, where gold winners will receive Ksh2.5 million, silver Ksh1.5 million, and bronze Ksh1 million. For the Youth Olympics, gold medalists will now get Ksh500,000, silver Ksh350,000, and bronze Ksh150,000.

Mvurya said the changes were prompted by growing concern over the mental health of young athletes, noting that many suffer silently due to financial insecurity.

“I think this is a matter for discussion for all of us,” he told senators. “Youth have a dream. And I’m sure the dream is not necessarily for them to act negatively. The dream is for them to use their skills to inspire their livelihood.”

The CS called for closer collaboration between government, the private sector, and civil society to build structures that nurture youth talent.

He urged leaders to stop politicizing youth matters and instead support policies that empower them through funding, mentorship, and accessible opportunities.