The National Heroes’ Council has announced plans to construct a centre in Elgeyo Marakwet in honour of late marathoner Kelvin Kiptum.
A member of the Heroes Council , Hussein Kadida, said the council is intending to construct a centre which will act as a social joint for the youth who will be taught how to use the sports to promote harmonious coexistence.
Speaking in Iten when the Council paid homage to the late Kiptum, Kadida said owing to the fact that people from different backgrounds come to Iten to train, this could be used to bring peace by having a facility where sporting activities could be accompanied by peace building activities.
He however said the establishment of the centre should not be left to the Council alone but should be supported by other interested actors to ensure it comes to fruition.
The Council CEO Charles Wambia said the organization is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding with the county government of Elgeyo Marakwet and set a road map on areas of collaboration.
He presented the late Kiptum’s widow Asenath Rotich with a certificate and medal from the Head of State.
Area Governor Wisley Rotich thanked the Council for recognizing and honouring peace builders within 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 like sports, business, agriculture being honored to inspire our young people,” he said.
Kelvin Kiptum died on 11th February 2024 in a road accident together with his coach Rwandese Gervais Hakizimana.
At the time of his death Kiptum was the reigning men’s marathon world record holder after he ran 2.00.35 during last year’s Chicago Marathon.
