The National Heroes’ Council will construct a centre in Elgeyo Marakwet that will use sports to promote peace in honour of fallen athlete Kelvin Kiptum.
Council member Hussein Kadida said the council aimed to have a structure where the youth could meet and engage positively.
Speaking in Iten when the council paid homage to Kiptum, he said it was not enough to disarm people physically but mentally as well.
"Since people from different backgrounds come to Iten to train, this could be used to bring peace by having a facility where sporting activities can be accompanied by peace-building activities," Kadida said.
He said the establishment of the centre should not be left to the council alone but supported by other interested actors to ensure it is a success.
Council CEO Charles Wambia said his organisation would sign a deal with the county on areas where they could work together as per their mandate in promoting the county.
He presented Kiptum’s widow Asenath Rotich with a certificate and medal from the Head of State.
Area Governor Wisley Rotich thanked the council for recognising and honouring peace builders in the county, saying this has given them more energy to promote peace.
He called on the National Treasury to increase funding to the council to enable them go round the country and honour people who contributed positively to the society, saying this would help in inspiring the youth.
“We should have other Kenyans from different communities who have excelled in various sectors, such as sports, business and agriculture, being honoured to inspire our young people,” he said.
