Sports Ministry Explains Visa Setback for Skater Kevin Kiarie

The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports released a statement outlining why skater Kevin Kiarie Ruhiu was unable to travel to the World Skate Games in Asunción, Paraguay.

After Kiarie posted a video on social media requesting assistance, Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi ordered the Directorate of Sports to investigate the travel bottlenecks and provide administrative support, the ministry said in a statement issued on Wednesday, October 7.

Director of Sports Dr Bernard Ouma then contacted Kiarie, who explained that his booked flight required a transit visa for Panama, a country without a resident embassy in Kenya, necessitating coordination with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and Panamanian diplomatic channels.

The ministry noted that the original itinerary indicated a departure on October 2, which had already passed when the Directorate began preparations, and that Kiarie did not submit an updated itinerary despite follow-up requests, hindering both diplomatic and alternative travel options.

Officials also advised Kiarie to consider an alternative route that avoided Panama and asked him to provide a revised travel plan so the government could determine the most practical assistance.

The ministry further asserted that Kiarie had previously benefited from government support, citing cash awards for the Africa Skating Championships in Egypt and the Benin International Challenge that were fully paid.

Kiarie publicly rejected the ministry’s account, claiming he never received any financial support, that he had to fundraise for his ticket and accommodation, and that promises of assistance were false; he demanded details of any money approved in his name.

In a statement on October 6, Kiarie said he had done everything within his control but was not accorded the appropriate support, resulting in his missing the men’s Inline Freestyle competition scheduled for October 6-9 at the Games.

The ministry reiterated that visa facilitation and international travel interventions depend on early engagement and the provision of complete, valid documentation, and that athletes are expected to engage the relevant authorities promptly.