Kenyan skater Kevin Kiarie returned home to a quiet reception after a remarkable performance at the African Skating Championships in Cairo, where he won two gold medals for Kenya.
Despite flying the Kenyan flag high on the continental stage, Kiarie’s arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was met with little fanfare, with no government officials, sports ministry representatives, or federation delegates present to welcome the champion home.
His return quickly sparked public debate online, with many netizens questioning why a double African champion was not accorded the recognition often given to athletes representing the country internationally.
One X user, Jawaka Grapfix, called on the government to honour its promise of rewarding gold medallists, “Kwanza apewe millioni zake tatu for bringing gold home, ’he wrote.
Another user, Caleb Suerey, questioned the silence from sports authorities. “Those at the sports ministry should answer a few questions.”
Kiarie delivered an impressive performance in the Freestyle Battle and Classic Slalom categories, cementing his status as one of Africa’s standout skating talents. However, unlike the celebratory receptions commonly seen for athletes in mainstream sports, his return remained largely unnoticed outside social media circles.
Upon landing in Nairobi, the skater was received only by close family members, with no banners, official ceremony, or organised media coverage to mark his achievement.
In a heartfelt message after arriving home, Kiarie thanked those who supported him throughout his journey. “Special thanks to my family for standing with me through the journey and for receiving me at the airport today,” he said.
His latest triumph comes just weeks after another successful outing in Benin in April 2026, where he competed in a self-sponsored tournament and returned with a gold and silver medal despite financial constraints.
Kiarie’s story has now reignited conversations around the recognition and support given to athletes in lesser-funded sports, with many Kenyans urging authorities to invest more in emerging talents beyond athletics and football.