Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has appealed to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to exempt Kenyan athletes from taxation on prize money earned through international competitions.
Speaking during a Senate plenary session on Thursday, April 30, the outspoken lawmaker expressed concern over what he described as heavy taxation imposed on athletes after winning major global races and championships.
Cherargei cited marathon star Sebastian Sawe, who recently made history at the 2026 London Marathon after reportedly becoming the first athlete to run a sub-two-hour marathon under official race conditions, clocking 1:59:30.
According to the senator, the athlete’s record-breaking performance earned him approximately KSh48.5 million in prize money, but a significant portion of the earnings could be lost through taxation.
“I have only one problem with KRA. Can you believe Sebastian Sawe is winning KSh48.5 million in award? But KRA are taking KSh18 million. KRA should zero rate. Why take KSh18 million?” Cherargei posed in the Senate.
The legislator argued that athletes dedicate years of sacrifice, discipline, and hard work to elevate Kenya’s global reputation through sports achievements, and therefore deserve better incentives and protection from excessive taxation.
He further urged the taxman to reconsider its approach toward athletes and sports personalities, saying their winnings should be treated differently from regular taxable income.
“Mr. Speaker, so I want to appeal to KRA not to touch the winnings of athletes and sportsmen,” he added.
Cherargei’s remarks have since sparked debate online, with some Kenyans supporting his proposal as a way of rewarding athletes who bring pride to the country, while others argue that all income earners should remain subject to taxation regardless of profession.
