Monday, September 22,
2025 - American universities are intensifying efforts to recruit Kenyan
athletic talent, offering enticing scholarship packages that combine education,
professional training, and the opportunity to compete under the U.S flag.
According to The Washington Post, scouts have
been flocking to Eldoret, Kenya’s running capital, targeting young athletes
amid limited local investment in sports.
The recruitment surge follows policy shifts under President
Donald Trump’s administration, which have reshaped student visa and scholarship
pathways.
Kenyan athletes, drawn by the promise of academic
advancement and global exposure, are increasingly switching allegiance.
Last season, Kenyan women dominated the NCAA cross-country
championships, while Texas Tech signed Solomon Kipchoge, whose half-marathon
time surpassed the American record.
In March 2024, 14 Kenyan youths earned U.S scholarships
after trials at Kipchoge Stadium, organised by diaspora-based Kenyans.
To qualify, athletes must meet academic and performance
benchmarks.
The model mirrors high-stakes football and basketball
programs, where institutions invest heavily to boost medal prospects.
Kenya’s talent drain isn’t new. Stephen Cherono famously
switched to Qatar, accepting a monthly stipend of Ksh112,300 and adopting the
name Saif Saeed Shaheen.
Despite the exodus, Kenya remains a global athletics
powerhouse, finishing second at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo with
11 medals - seven gold, two silver, and two bronze - just behind the United
States.
As college sports grows more competitive, the scramble for Kenyan
talent highlights the urgent need for stronger local support to retain its
stars.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
0 Comments