Thousands streamed into Lobo Village, Kapsaret on Saturday for the fifth edition of the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country Tournament, eager to witness Kenya's athletic champions defend their titles and upcoming stars showcase their talent.
Agnes Ng'etich, the World Athletics Cross Country Championship winner, and John Korir claimed victory in the senior 10KM race, finishing in 32:28 and 29:44 respectively, each taking home a gold medal reward of Ksh. 770,000. This prize money represents a financial boost that when managed well, can create generational wealth and sustain families.
Yet many athletes have struggled to maintain a long-term, financially sustainable career after major championship victories. Achieving a sustainable career demands strategic investments, sound financial advice, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to continuous financial education.
With this in mind, Absa Bank Kenya hosted a financial literacy workshop for 60 athletes ahead of the tournament. The workshop was designed to help athletes translate their championship earnings into lasting financial stability. Additionally, the bank also conducted a tree planting exercise at the sports complex as part of its continued efforts to support environmental sustainability efforts.
Among those in attendance were Lagos Marathon Champion Edwin Koech, 2023 Nairobi City Marathon Champion Robert Kiplimo Kipkemboi, and Nanjing Marathon Champion Boaz Kipkemei.
Charles Wokabi, Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs at Absa Kenya, mentioned that the bank's investment in sport goes far beyond handing out financial rewards.
"Many athletes earn significant prize money at a young age, but without proper planning, those earnings can vanish," he said.
"Financial literacy gives athletes control. It helps them make smart decisions, protect their earnings, and build a stable future."
Wokabi also acknowledged the reality that athletic careers are often short, underscoring the importance of early financial planning.
Financial literacy equips athletes to manage their winnings responsibly, navigate the pressures that come with sudden wealth, and ultimately build a foundation for early retirement. The workshops also benefit upcoming athletes, giving them a headstart in understanding financial management before the big financial rewards arrive.
Beyond financial literacy, the bank also advocates for education especially among young upcoming athletes whose careers are still taking shape. The bank emphasises the importance of academic success and continuity as a parallel pathway to personal growth and long-term security. This ensures they are equipped not only to compete at the highest level, but also to transition seamlessly into new opportunities when the time comes.
“We see the stories of these athletes, and we are committed to helping them thrive both on and off the track and ensuring that the money they earn supports them for life. We have a long-term commitment to support them even outside the competitions by ensuring that they have a pathway to other opportunities outside the sporting activities,” said Absa Bank Kenya Corporate and Investment Banking Managing Executive James Agin.
Additionally, these athletes are taken through nutrition and wellness programmes to support their physical and mental preparedness ahead of major competitions. These sessions are facilitated by qualified experts and coaches who provide guidance on how they can build resilience and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
These interventions also extend to the families of these athletes because when you strengthen the support system around a sportsperson, you strengthen their chances of long-term success. Family members are engaged in conversations about accessing financial support, from business capital and savings options to structured financing options. This helps create a holistic support ecosystem for these athletes and helps alleviate financial burdens over their shoulders.
Absa Bank is also passionate about environmental sustainability, driving initiatives that seek to conserve the environment. Through the Absa Kenya Foundation, the bank donated a 10,000-litre water tank and conducted a tree-planting session in Lobo Village at Jasho Primary School, giving learners a conducive learning environment.
The prizes of the competition may make headlines during the competition, however the true impact of the Absa Sirikwa Classic extends beyond the medals podium, setting athletes on a journey toward financial knowledge, long-term stability, and a secure financial legacy that supports future generations.
