FOREST CONSERVATION IS KEY TO THRIVING SPORTS – CS TOBIKO

CS Tobiko (left) having a word with World Marathon Record holder Eliud Kipchoge and Sports CS Amb Amina Mohamed during 2019 Mashujaa celebration in Mombasa

Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko has called on sports personalities to support the government in environmental conservation, saying environment and forest resources are enablers to better performance in sports.

Speaking when he met with with renowned, World Marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge, CS Tobiko urged sports personalities like Kipchoge to promote environmental conservation, which in return will provide them with a conducive training environment.

“Kipchoge is among other world renowned athletes in the country train at the Kaptagat Forest and its conservation and restoration will ensure there is quality air, in the environment for training and performance” said Tobiko.

During the discussions, the athlete who became the first man to ever run a 42 kilometers marathon in less than two hours revealed that through the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, he intended to adopt and restore part of Kaptagat Forest, in Nandi County.

The athlete together with his Coach Mr. Sang who were flown to Mombasa for the Mashujaa Day celebrations by Kenya Forest Service caravan was awarded Elder of the Golden Heart (EGH) medal by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

EGH is awarded to a people in recognition of their outstanding or distinguish services rendered to the nation in various capacities.

Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko with World Marathon Record holder Eliud Kipchoge during 2019 Mashujaa celebration in Mombasa