Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya during a past meeting with Team at the just concluded 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan/HANDOUT

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has hailed Team Kenya’s top form performance at the just concluded 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

Kenya finished second overall behind the United States, after a stellar performance that saw the country bag 11 medals, including seven golds.

Mvurya commended all the 59 athletes who represented the country, praising their resilience and determination.

 “I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to all 59 gallant athletes, 23 women and 36 men, who proudly donned the Kenyan colors at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan,” he said in a statement on Monday.

He noted that Kenya’s success reaffirms its status as the home of champions and that the government will continue investing in modern training facilities, sports academies, and athlete welfare.

The CS encouraged those who did not make it past the heats not to give up as they will have time to get it right.

“Even if you did not step onto the podium this time, know that every stride, every lap, and every finish you fought for carried the pride of our nation. Today’s near misses are tomorrow’s breakthroughs,” Mvurya told the athletes.

The Cabinet Secretary also pointed to Kenya’s bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, saying the country is ready to bring the event to Africa for the first time.

“Our athletes have already shown the world their excellence, now it is our turn to provide a global stage at home,” he said.

Kenya’s women led the way, with Beatrice Chebet clinching a historic double gold in the 10,000m and 5,000m.

Faith Kipyegon added another gold in the 1500m and a silver in the 5,000m, while Faith Cherotich broke a Championship Record to win the 3000m steeplechase.

Lilian Odira triumphed in the 800m and Peres Jepchirchir won the marathon.

Dorcus Ewoi secured silver in the 1500m.

The men also impressed as Emmanuel Wanyonyi stormed to gold in the 800m with a Championship Record.

Reynold Cheruiyot bagged bronze in the 1500m while Edmund Serem added another bronze in the 3000m steeplechase.