Cherargei urges KRA to scrap tax on athletes’ winnings
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has urged the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to reconsider taxing prize money earned by Kenyan athletes, arguing that such earnings should be exempt or zero-rated to better reward excellence and ease the burden on sports personalities.
Speaking on the floor of the Senate, the Nandi Senator questioned the taxation of marathon champion Sabastian Sawe, claiming that a significant portion of his recent winnings is set to be deducted as tax.
“Mr Speaker, can you believe Sebastian Sawe is winning Ksh.48.5 million in awards but KRA is taking Ksh.18 million? KRA should zero-rate. I want to appeal to KRA not to tax the winnings of our athletes and sportsmen,” Cherargei said, adding that authorities should instead focus on curbing tax evasion.
He argued that heavy taxation on sporting winnings risks dampening the morale of athletes who bring international recognition to Kenya through their achievements.
Cherargei’s remarks come amid national celebrations following Sawe’s standout performance at the London Marathon, where he delivered what has been described as a historic win.
President William Ruto hosted the athlete at State House, Nairobi, in recognition of his achievement. During the ceremony, Ruto awarded Sawe a total of Ksh.8 million in incentives—Sh5 million for breaking a record and an additional Ksh.3 million for winning the international race.
Sawe was accorded a high-profile reception upon his return, including transport in a presidential vehicle from his arrival point to State House.
Carrying the Kenyan flag, he later handed it to the President in a symbolic gesture of national pride.
In addition to the cash awards, the Head of State gifted the champion a car of his choice, customised with special number plates reading “01 59 30” in honour of his record-breaking performance.
