Opinion: Better windfall will inspire Kenya’s sports teams to excel globally

In law, precedence is a concept that serves as an example for deciding similar cases in the future.

Yesterday in Yaoundé, the Junior Malkia Strikers served a performance worthy of national headlines, spiking hosts Cameroon 3–1 to win the Africa U-20 Championships final, punching a ticket to the 2026 FIVB World U-20 Championships.

This came hot on the heels of a semi-final victory over powerhouse Egypt, achieved despite entering camp only two weeks before the tournament.

Their run is a story of grit, limited resources, and sheer willpower, qualities that have long defined Kenyan volleyball.

But their return home tonight raises a familiar question: will they be rewarded beyond a handshake and a congratulatory tweet? 

History is not encouraging. Even the senior Malkia Strikers, who are 10-time African champions, have often been overlooked when it comes to tangible appreciation.

Their success, while celebrated in words, rarely translates into financial or structural support.

So by awarding Harambee Stars players with millions, the president has set a precedent for other teams to also demand something if they shine in Kenyan colors. 

The Harambee Stars, competing in the 2024 CHAN tournament, have already secured close to Ksh 100 million in rewards after two wins—against DR Congo and Morocco—and a draw with Angola.

President William Ruto has further pledged Ksh 2.5 million per player if they beat Zambia in their final group game on August 17.

This creates a fairness dilemma. If football’s success is valued in millions, should volleyball, rugby, athletics, and other disciplines expect the same? 

The Junior Malkia Strikers’ triumph over Cameroon was not just a win; it was redemption after losing to the same team earlier in the preliminaries—a sweet revenge that showcased tactical brilliance under coach Jackline Barasa, herself a former Malkia Strikers middle blocker.

Rewarding sporting excellence is a good policy, but it must be balanced, transparent, and consistent. 

A precedent that heavily favors one sport risks alienating others, leading to resentment and demotivation. 

National pride is built across disciplines, from the spikes and blocks of volleyball to the sprints on the track and goals on the pitch.

If the bar has been set high for football, let it inspire, not divide. Recognition, whether in shillings or support, should match the magnitude of the achievement, regardless of the sport.

After all, glory in Kenyan colours is not exclusive to the green turf; it lives equally on the court, the track, and beyond.