Millions set for Mwanariadha Pension Fund to support athletics heroes in retirement

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ATHLETICS Millions set for Mwanariadha Pension Fund to support athletics heroes in retirement

Festus Chuma 14:36 - 30.11.2023

Mwanariadha Pension Fund launched to provide financial security for athletes, with substantial government support and widespread commitment.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has launched the Mwanariadha Pension Fund that is aimed at safeguarding the financial well-being of Kenya's athletics heroes.

This pioneering initiative is designed to provide financial security for the country's renowned athletes once their golden and active years on the track come to an end.

At the launch event, CS Ababu Namwamba expressed his delight and commended the brainchild of the scheme, Athletics Kenya, along with its dedicated partners who have joined forces to make this vision a reality.

He also pledged substantial government support, with a staggering 20 million shillings contribution, divided equally between two vital components of the fund: the Veterans Endowment Fund and the Mwanariadha Pension Initiative.

This support comes through the Sports, Arts & Social Development Fund (SSADF) and underscores the government's commitment to the revitalization and progress of Kenya's sports sector.

CS Ababu Namwamba emphasized the government's active involvement in nurturing and advancing sports through a combination of policies, financing, and concrete action.

"We are fully present in the revival & advancement of sports through Government policies, financing & Action," showcasing the government's determination to elevate the nation's sports scene.

Encouraging all Kenyan athletes to embrace the opportunity to secure their financial futures, the CS likened it to boarding the twin flight of perpetual funds.

Joining CS Ababu Namwamba at the launch was SSADF CEO Nuh Ibrahim, who echoed the CS's sentiments regarding the Ministry's unwavering support for various sporting disciplines in Kenya.

General Retired Jackson Tuwei, President of Athletics Kenya and World Athletics Vice President, recounted the dire situation faced by retired athletes in various parts of the country.

“We would like to pave a dignified way for athletes who continue being an undeniable source of pride to Kenya," said Tuwei.

General Tuwei committed Ksh 2 million in support from Athletics Kenya and announced that registration was open to all members of Athletics Kenya, including individual athletes, coaches, and their families.

Underlining the fund's significance, CPF administrators emphasized the importance of ensuring a dignified and secure financial future for Kenya's athletes after retirement.

CPF Financial Services added a substantial contribution of 1 million Kenyan shillings to the fund's seed fund, further demonstrating the commitment of various stakeholders to the cause.

Wilfred Bungei, one of the trustees of the fund and a representative voice for the athletes, described the launch as a new dawn for the Athletics fraternity.

Legendary runner Catherine Ndereba echoed Bungei's sentiments, praising the Mwanariadha Pension Fund as a game changer in the lives of Kenyan athletes. 

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