The Kenya Kwanza government has announced its unwavering support to the family of the late marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum.
The cabinet on Wednesday resolved to support Kiptum’s family in giving him a befitting heroic farewell.
This will ensure that Kiptum will have a dignified and heroic farewell for the late national hero.
"Kiptum was a sporting powerhouse whose record-shattering achievements inspired millions around the world," reads the dispatch.
Kiptum, who made history as the first human to complete a marathon in under two hours and one minute, tragically lost his life, leaving a void in the nation's sporting legacy.
Kiptum's historic achievement of completing a marathon in an astonishing 2:00.35, setting a new world record in Chicago on October 8, 2023, earned him due recognition from the government.
The late athlete was honoured with the prestigious Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW), a national accolade celebrating his unparalleled dedication and contribution to the world of marathon running.
As the nation grieves the loss of a remarkable athlete, the Cabinet also acknowledged the ongoing interventions initiated by the Ministry of Sports to enhance the protection of the country's sporting icons.
The importance of upholding traffic laws and practising safe road use was emphasized, with a poignant reminder of the tragic road accident that claimed Kiptum's life.
The call for responsible road behaviour serves as a crucial step in preventing similar accidents and safeguarding the lives of athletes and citizens alike.
The Marathon world record holder will be buried on February, 24, a member of the burial committee told the BBC.
The 24-year-old runner will be laid to rest in his hometown of Chepkorio in northwest Kenya on February 24.
The Head of State eulogized Kiptum as a star, noting that he was an extraordinary sportsman who left an extraordinary mark on the globe.
"Kelvin Kiptum was arguably one of the world’s finest sportsmen who broke barriers to secure a marathon record," he said.
The President noted that just at the age of 24, Kiptum was a hero who triumphed in Valencia, Chicago, London and other top competitions.
He said Kiptum's mental strength and discipline were unmatched, adding that," Kiptum was our future".
The President passed his condolences to the family and the entire sporting fraternity.
Kiptum died along with his coach Gervais Hakizimana in a road accident on Sunday night.
