CONDOLENCE MESSAGE FROM AMB (DR.) AMINA C. MOHAMED, EGH, CAV, CABINET SECRETARY FOR SPORTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE, DURING THE BURIAL OF MS. AGNES TIROP, HELD AT KAPNYEMEISA, NANDI COUNTY ON 23rd OCTOBER, 2021

I am deeply saddened, by the loss of our daughter and hero, Ms. Agnes Tirop. Agnes was a celebrated long-distance athlete, who brought pride and prestige to her family, and country. Her remarkable performances in the 5000 meters, and cross-country races, raised her global profile as a young and promising athlete. At the time of her death, Agnes was the world-record holder in the 10 kilometers women’s only event.

We will also remember Agnes, for her kindness and hard work. Those who interacted with her, attest to her love for others and her interest in their development. Her passion for the tracks, has inspired many young athletes to pursue careers in athletics. Her death is therefore, a big loss to us, for we have lost a daughter, sister, friend and global ambassador.

I would like to thank H.E President Uhuru Kenyatta, for his interest in this matter, and specifically, for sending out an investigatory team to help us piece together, the last moments of Agnes’s life. I have also expanded the mandate of the Ministerial Committee on Gender Welfare in Sports, to include the case of Agnes, and to present to me its report next week. We will thereafter, hold the Agnes Tirop press conference, in her honor, and present the findings of the taskforce to the public.

As we celebrate the life and legacy of Agnes Tirop, I want to urge all the parents gathered here today, to pay special attention to the environment in which we are raising our children. Our children are a reflection of who we are as individuals, parents and a society. As adults, we are their first teachers in life. They hear how we talk to each other, they observe how their fathers treat their mothers, and are conscious of how the male figures in their lives, express themselves.

What happened to Agnes should not happen to another family. No parent should have to go through the pain and sorrow, that her parents are experiencing. Let us therefore, start a movement to save our children. Let us raise them with admirable values that they will carry into adulthood. Let us endeavor, to raise them in homes that are filled love, tolerance and forgiveness.

I would like to thank the leadership of Nandi County, for the support that you have given to us, as we continue to condole with the family. I also thank Athletics Kenya, and the entire sports fraternity, for standing with Agnes and her family.

To Mr and Mrs. Tirop, please accept our sincere condolences. Our hearts and prayers are with you, as you go through this difficult time. Be assured of our continued encouragement and support, as we keep alive, the memories and legacy of Agnes Tirop.

Thank you.