MPs have called on the government to put in place measures that will see the country participate in more disciplines at future Olympic Games.
While lauding Team Kenya for their success in the concluded Paris Olympics, the MPs stressed the need to invest in a wider range of sports for better representation and global success.
They challenged Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, to ensure Kenya participates in more disciplines at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, US.
A total of 40 sports are in the Olympics, including 32 in the ended Paris 2024 Summer Olympics and eight in Milano Cortina 2026, the next Winter Olympics.
Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna observed that Kenya's participation in this year’s Olympic Games was limited to athletics, and all 11 medals Kenya earned came solely from athletic disciplines.
Nguna called for on the ministry and the National Olympic Committee – Kenya to invest heavily in other disciplines to enhance and broaden Kenya’s participation in the next Olympics.
“It’s crucial that we broaden our sports coverage. By increasing our participation in a wider range of sports, we can enhance our chances of winning more medals,” he said.
Endebess MP Robert Pukose said Murkomen has his work cut out as he needs to widen and ensure Kenya’s participation in a variety of disciplines.
“We hope that the CS will be able to act under the new dispensation to make sure that we present athletes in almost all games next Olympics Hames in Los Angeles in 2028,” said Pukose.
“We should have athletes in all disciplines. Our neighbours, the Turkana and Pokot communities, are known for their skill in spear-throwing. So, in the next Olympics, we should include those who excel in spear throwing, shot put and other similar events,” he added.
Sotik MP Julius Sigei urged the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) officials to adequately prepare athletes for the next event.
He expressed regret that traditional strengths, such as the 10,000 meters and 3,000 meters steeplechase, have slipped away to competitors.
“It’s time we diversify our focus to secure more medals in various disciplines,” he said.
Sigei also called for the establishment of a reward scheme to honour sportsmen and sportswomen who excel in different events.
