The Ministry of Sports in Kenya has stepped into the debate surrounding skater Kelvin Kiarie's withdrawal from the World Skate Games 2026 in Paraguay. According to a statement released on October 8, the ministry is working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to secure an emergency Panama transit visa for Kiarie. The skater had booked a flight with a layover in Panama, but the country's lack of a resident embassy in Nairobi complicated the process.
Kiarie's travel issues arose from his decision to organize his own travel arrangements for the October 2-18 games. The Sports Ministry stated that it had previously sponsored Kiarie in international events, including the Africa Skating Championships in Egypt. However, Kiarie has disputed the ministry's claims, stating that he has not received any state funding or cash rewards for his performances.
The controversy surrounding Kiarie's funding has sparked a heated debate about the support provided to Kenyan athletes. Kiarie revealed that he was forced to organize public fundraising to cover his airfare and lodging for the Paraguay event. He also demanded an audit into the funds approved under his name, accusing the Director of Sports of failing to resolve his inquiries.
Kiarie announced his withdrawal from the World Skate Games 2026 on October 6, citing a lack of support from the government. He expressed disappointment and frustration, stating that he had tried everything within his control to participate in the event. The skater's 2026 competitive season has officially come to an end, and he will look forward to 2027.
The 26-year-old structural engineer has consistently represented Kenya at international skating events, often through self-funding and public appeals. In May 2026, Kiarie gained widespread attention for commuting by public matatu to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to represent Kenya at the African Skating Championships in Cairo, Egypt, and the Cotonou International Championship in Benin.
Despite winning gold and silver medals at the continental events, Kiarie has not received the promised reimbursements and direct funding from the Ministry of Sports. He met with Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi in May 2026, but the pledged support has not materialized.
Kiarie's case has highlighted systemic issues affecting national athletes, including corruption in the disbursement of athlete funds. He urged Kenyan athletes to stand up against injustices and alleged financial foul play, stating that money approved in his name had been diverted to another recipient.
Key points
- Kelvin Kiarie withdraws from World Skate Games 2026 due to travel complications.
- The Ministry of Sports is working to secure an emergency Panama transit visa for Kiarie.
- Kiarie disputes the Ministry of Sports' claims of providing him with state funding and cash rewards.
