Nyandarua Celebrates Deaflympics Champion Ian Kahinga With Red-Carpet Welcome and Special Honour
Many described the Deaflympics gold medalist as a role model whose story highlights the power of resilience and determination.
In this regard, the county government plans to employ a talent scout under an affirmative action programme who would ensure that the athletes with disabilities are discovered early and supported through a structured system. .Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Nyandarua County rolled out the red carpet to celebrate Summer Deaflympics sensation Ian Kahinga Wambui, who bagged two gold medals during the global competition held in Tokyo. Double champion Ian Kahinga Wambui, who dominated the 10,000m and 5,000m races, received a festive homecoming ceremony attended by local leaders, residents, and sporting stakeholders.
The celebrations were led by Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha, who gifted Kahinga a cow as a symbolic gesture to recognize his stellar performance that brought pride to the county and, largely, the country as a whole. The act was met with applause from the crowd in attendance, who hailed Kahinga as an inspiration to the young athletes, especially those living with disabilities.
The colourful event also marked the end of a brewing dispute surrounding Kahinga’s county of origin. Leaders from Nakuru and Laikipia had reportedly made attempts to associate the champion with their regions, prompting spirited responses from Nyandarua officials. Governor Badilisha used the occasion to firmly affirm that Kahinga is a son of Nyandarua, hailing from Githunguchu in Kiriita Ward, and that he works as a taxi operator in Mairo Inya town. Residents echoed the clarification, insisting that the county deserved full recognition for nurturing the talent that has now gained global acclaim.
During the ceremony, Governor Badilisha announced new initiatives toward strengthening sports development among persons with disabilities. He affirmed that the county has set aside KSh 900,000 to support and identify talent within this group. In this regard, the county government plans to employ a talent scout under an affirmative action programme who would ensure that the athletes with disabilities are discovered early and supported through a structured system.
The governor further indicated that Nyandarua has advanced discussions with Nyandarua University and a U.S.-based institution for the development of a holistic sports academy. The facility, when complete and operational, will accommodate training and mentoring of up-and-coming athletes in different disciplines. The proposed academy, according to officials at the county, will be fitted with modern sporting facilities and professional trainers, offering equal opportunities to local athletes as those found in established global sports schools.
Kahinga’s feats have reawakened interest in athletics within the county, with youth groups and sports associations calling for more investment in training facilities. Many described the Deaflympics gold medalist as a role model whose story highlights the power of resilience and determination.
As the celebrations went on, Kahinga thanked the county leadership, his family, and supporters who had stood by him all through. He called on the youth, especially those living with disability, to have confidence in pursuing their dreams since success was attainable once talent was supported and hard work embraced. The homecoming ceremony marked a major milestone for Nyandarua’s sporting community, where leaders pledged to ensure Kahinga’s win becomes a launching pad for nurturing future champions.
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