Faith Kipyegon, the athlete who currently holds two world records, was honored by Safaricom with a cash prize of Ksh. 2 million in recognition of her exceptional achievements. The telecommunications company celebrated Kipyegon’s remarkable feat of setting new world records in both the 1500-meter and 5000-meter races during the Diamond League.
During the event, which took place on Monday, the central business center skyscraper, boasting 29 floors, showcased a wall map dedicated to Kipyegon’s accomplishments. Safaricom’s CEO, Peter Ndegwa, presided over the ceremony and lauded the athlete for elevating Kenya’s standing on the global stage.
Ndegwa expressed Safaricom’s unwavering commitment to supporting talent within the country. He expressed admiration and pride for Faith’s remarkable performance, as she shattered two world records within a single week. Ndegwa believed that Faith’s achievement would serve as a motivation for many more talented individuals in Kenya. He also emphasized Safaricom’s ongoing involvement in sports, recognizing its ability to inspire and ignite passion among countless Kenyans.
In response to Safaricom’s recognition, Kipyegon expressed her gratitude and encouraged young mothers and athletes to pursue their passions relentlessly, focusing on their motivations and having faith in themselves.
Kipyegon completed the 1500 meters in a record-breaking time of 3:49.11, while also setting a new world record in the 5000 meters with a time of 14:05.20.
Looking ahead, Kipyegon will shift her focus to the IAAF Diamond League in Monaco, followed by the World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Hungary, which she has identified as her primary objective for the year.
To show further support for Faith and her world records, Safaricom illuminated the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre with a 3D projection of Faith’s image on Monday night.