In a compassionate gesture, President William Ruto has instructed professionals to expedite the construction of a new residence for the grieving family of the late marathon great, Kelvin Kiptum, within the next seven days. The government has committed to fulfilling this obligation, aiming to provide a fitting farewell to the departed world marathon record holder.
Regrettably, Kiptum, along with his coach Gervais Hakizimana, lost their lives in a road accident on Sunday, leaving the family in distress as he was the primary provider. Despite Kiptum’s untimely demise, plans for a new home, which he had envisioned for his family, will now come to fruition with the support of the Head of State, who is determined to ensure the departed hero receives a dignified send-off.
Mike Okinyi from Citizen TV reported on Thursday night that special emissaries from President Ruto visited Kiptum’s family to convey the President’s commitment to constructing a three-bedroom house before the scheduled burial on February 24. Okinyi shared, “The engineers were on site today, and they said; ‘give us the site you want the house to be and leave the rest to us. In seven days, we shall have a house here, and the President says he wants to be in the house before he is sent off like a hero.’
Three potential sites for the house were considered, including one within his father’s compound and two other plots purchased by Kiptum in Kaptagat. The family is expected to finalize the location by Friday, where the house and Kiptum’s final resting place will be determined.
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The news relieves Kiptum’s family, who had shared his intentions to build them a home before his passing. Kiptum’s wife, Asenath Jeruto, revealed their plans, stating, “We had very many good plans with my husband. Even in April, I was to go to the Rotterdam Marathon with him. The house was to be done in June, and we planned to move out after that.” His father, Samson Cheruiyot, also disclosed on Monday that Kiptum had mentioned Golazo, his management team, would arrange for the construction of a house and the purchase of a car.
Earlier in the week, the government had pledged to ensure a befitting send-off for Kiptum, acknowledging his contributions to raising the country’s flag through his remarkable marathon achievements. The current initiatives indicate a commitment to honoring this promise and providing solace to the grieving family.
