The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports in Kenya has addressed concerns over the delayed visa process for skater Kevin Kiarie Ruhiu, who was set to participate in the World Skate Games in Asunción, Paraguay, from October 2-18, 2026. According to the ministry, Kiarie's original travel plan had lapsed before officials could intervene. This development has sparked controversy, with Kiarie previously accusing the ministry of neglecting skating athletes.
On October 7, the ministry released a statement defending its handling of Kiarie's visa and travel support request. Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi had instructed the Directorate of Sports to engage with Kiarie after the athlete posted a video on social media expressing his concerns. Director of Sports Dr. Bernard Ouma subsequently contacted Kiarie to discuss his travel plans.
Kiarie's initial itinerary included a transit through Panama, requiring a transit visa. However, the ministry noted that Panama does not have a resident embassy in Kenya, complicating the process. As a result, the Directorate began preparing official correspondence to facilitate the request through the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and Panamanian diplomatic channels.
The ministry advised Kiarie to consider alternative routes that would eliminate the need for a Panama transit visa and requested an updated itinerary. However, Kiarie's original itinerary, which was meant for travel on October 2, had already expired by the time the Directorate took up the matter. This development hindered further diplomatic or alternative travel interventions.
Despite follow-up efforts, Kiarie did not provide a revised itinerary, which stalled the process. The ministry's statement also highlighted its previous support for Kiarie, including his participation in the Africa Skating Championships in Egypt and the full payment of cash awards from the Benin International Challenge and the African event.
Kiarie had previously accused the ministry of sidelining skating athletes, which has contributed to the controversy surrounding his visa delay. The ministry's statement aims to clarify its actions and demonstrate its commitment to supporting Kenyan athletes.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by athletes in Kenya, particularly in sports like skating, which may not receive the same level of attention as more popular sports. The ministry's handling of Kiarie's case will likely be scrutinized by athletes, sports administrators, and the general public.
Key points
- The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports attributes the delay in Kevin Kiarie's Paraguay visa to an expired travel plan.
- Kiarie's original itinerary included a transit through Panama, which required a transit visa that complicated the process.
- The ministry had previously supported Kiarie's participation in international skating events, including the Africa Skating Championships in Egypt.
