Ruto Launches Plan to Recruit 500 Athletes Into Military and Police

President William Ruto has announced the recruitment of 500 athletes into Kenya’s disciplined forces as part of a new government initiative to integrate sports into national service and provide structured career opportunities for athletes.

Under the plan, 200 athletes will join the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and 150 will be recruited into the National Police Service (NPS). Talks are ongoing to include the Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, and the National Youth Service (NYS) in similar efforts. 

The programme aims to offer athletes long-term employment, access to professional training facilities, and stable career paths, areas that have historically lacked adequate support in Kenya's sporting sector. Speaking during a breakfast event at State House held in honour of the Kenyan team that competed at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, President Ruto described the initiative as a deliberate policy decision. 

He said that the government is building on a long-standing tradition of disciplined forces supporting sports by expanding such opportunities to benefit more talented youth. Kenya finished second overall at the championships, winning 11 medals, including seven golds. 

Beatrice Chebet secured gold in both the 10,000m and 5,000m events, while Emmanuel Wanyonyi delivered a standout performance with a record-breaking victory in the men’s 800m. In recognition of their achievements, the government awarded a total of KSh27 million in cash prizes. 

Gold medallists received KSh3 million each, silver medallists were awarded KSh2 million, and bronze winners received KSh1 million. The updated reward system, introduced earlier in September, marks a notable increase from previous years and is designed to encourage continued excellence in international competitions.

The government also announced that all medallists would benefit from the Affordable Housing Programme. Each athlete will have the option to purchase a home under a co-payment arrangement, with the government covering 50% of the cost. 

Athletes who are unable to pay their share upfront will be eligible for a soft loan from the Affordable Housing Fund, allowing them to repay in monthly instalments starting from KSh5,000. President Ruto clarified that while the housing will not be given free of charge, it remains financially accessible under the scheme.