From the peaceful village of Githunguchu in Kiriita Ward, Ian Wambui Kahinga has made history not just in Kenya, but around the world. His incredible achievement at the Tokyo Deaflympics has everyone talking.
Ian Wambui Kahinga did what many only dream of—he shattered records and brought home gold! He set a new world record in the men’s 5000 meters with an astonishing time of 13 minutes, 52.83 seconds. What makes this even more remarkable? He broke a record that had stood tall for 12 years.
Complementing this accomplishment, he also clinched victory in the 10,000m race, earning a gold medal and cementing his reputation as an elite athlete in the international arena.
During a courtesy call to Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, Wambui took the opportunity to convey heartfelt appreciation to those who stood by him throughout his journey.
He credited his success to the unwavering support of various stakeholders, including his fellow taxi drivers—a community he proudly belongs to—alongside his family and the local government, whose encouragement played a vital role in his athletic triumphs.
The occasion also served as an opportunity for Governor Badilisha to outline his administration’s dedication to advancing sports development within the county.
Recognizing Wambui’s exceptional achievement as an inspiration for future athletes, the governor made a groundbreaking announcement of a KSh900,000 fund tailored toward nurturing talent among individuals with disabilities.
According to Governor Badilisha, this initiative demonstrates the county’s commitment to inclusivity and enhancing opportunities for differently-abled people.
Further emphasizing his administration’s vision for sports excellence, the governor unveiled plans to recruit a dedicated talent scout specifically drawn from the disability community. This effort aligns with affirmative action goals aimed at empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring their representation in key developmental roles.
In addition to these impactful measures, the county is actively working on establishing a state-of-the-art sports academy.
Badilisha stated that this project is being realized through a collaboration between the newly inaugurated Nyandarua University and an esteemed partner institution from the United States.
The proposed academy aspires to act as a hub for identifying, training, and elevating athletic talent across Nyandarua and beyond, creating pathways for future champions while also strengthening the region’s presence in competitive sports.
