Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has called for increased investment in women’s sports following Kenya’s historic gold medal victory by the Rising Lionesses at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.
Senator Cherargei noted that the team’s triumph in the women’s Rugby Sevens competition marked a major milestone for Kenyan sport and African rugby, demonstrating the potential of young Kenyan women to compete at the highest international level.
Notably, the Rising Lionesses defeated Australia 17-12 in the final on November 3, with Mitchelle Chemtai scoring the decisive try in extra time to secure the gold medal.
The victory was particularly significant after Australia had beaten Kenya earlier in the competition. The Kenyan side fought back from a 12-5 deficit to level the scores before Chemtai’s extra-time try sealed the win.
In a statement to the Senate, the Nandi Senator praised the players for their resilience, discipline and teamwork, saying their performance had brought honour to the country.
“Their resilience, discipline, teamwork, and determination were instrumental in achieving this historic result,” he reiterated.
Cherargei described the achievement as Kenya’s first Olympic gold medal in a team sport and the first time an African nation had won Rugby Sevens gold at either the Olympic Games or the Youth Olympic Games.
Further, he maintained that the victory had affirmed the talent and potential of young Kenyan women and demonstrated what could be achieved with proper preparation and support.
The senator also commended the technical bench led by head coach Cuthbert Otwoma, as well as those who supported the team’s preparation and participation in the competition.
“The Rising Lionesses have inspired young people across the country, particularly girls, and shown what can be achieved through hard work, commitment, and opportunity,” he reaffirmed.
In addition, Cherargei urged the Government and sports stakeholders to build on the team’s success by investing in grassroots programmes, improving access to quality sporting facilities and coaching, and creating clear development pathways for young athletes.
The senator called for particular attention to women’s rugby and other sporting disciplines in which Kenyan women had demonstrated potential, arguing that the team’s achievement should be followed by sustained support rather than celebrated as an isolated success.
“This achievement should be matched with sustained investment in women’s sport,” he urged.
He further called on the relevant authorities to recognise and reward the players, while ensuring they receive continued support for their welfare, training and future international competitions.
Senator Cherarkey said the team’s success had elevated Africa’s profile in rugby and should encourage the country to create more opportunities for young athletes to excel on the international stage.
By Michael Omondi
