Canoeing sensation Samuel Muturi gear up for 2025 World Championships

Samuel Muturi has intensified his training ahead of the 2025 Canoe Ocean Racing World Championship slated from October 17-19 in Durban, South Africa.

The 29-year-old Kirinyaga-born sensation made history when he became the first Kenyan Slalom Canoe Kayak to reach the semifinals at the 2019 World Championships in La Seu d’Urgell in Spain and is raring to go ahead of the global showpiece.

Muturi bagged Ksh 500,000 in 2024 as the Central Region Gold winner through the Tujiamini initiative, a windfall that helped him invest in racing gear, a camera to document his races and gym equipment which has not only boosted his training but also benefited fellow athletes who train alongside him.

His story is embodying Tujiamini’s mission of empowering individuals and communities through sports and talent development.

“Samuel’s journey is one of the success stories we’ve had since we launched Tujiamini,” said Debra Maina, Tujiamini Public Relations Lead.

“We are happy that through his win, his colleagues have also benefited from the initiative.”

Building on this success, Tujiamini is redirecting its Gold Award towards community empowerment and development.

With a Ksh 1, 000,000 budget, the initiative aims to support community-driven projects that create a lasting impact.

“This year, we are keen on projects that bring communities together,” Maina added. “Whether it’s revamping a community playground or supporting small businesses like a car wash in need of better equipment, Tujiamini is here to make a difference.

Muturi’s story manifests the ripple effect of empowerment. The gym equipment he acquired has become a shared resource for his fellow athletes, strengthening their training routines and community spirit.

Encouraging others to take part, Muturi has emphasized the initiative’s value in uplifting individuals and communities.

“I urge everyone to participate in the Tujiamini movement,” said Muturi.

As Tujiamini broadens its scope with over ksh 30,000,000 it remains committed to fostering dreams, talents, and now, stronger communities.

Muturi who trains at Sagana (Tana River) is yearning to represent Kenya at the 2028 Olympic Games in Slalom Canoe Kayak sport.

If his dream comes true, Muturi will be the first Kenyan to represent the country in the little-known discipline.

He has been to Spain thrice and Slovakia once for the World Championships.

He has also participated in Africa Olympic qualifiers held in Sainte Suzanne, La Reunion, in February 2024,