Kenyan middle-distance champion Faith Kipyegon has launched a major healthcare initiative by commissioning a new maternity ward in her hometown of Keringet, Nakuru County.
The facility, named the Dare to Dream Maternity Ward, is designed to provide accessible, safe, and quality maternal and newborn care in an area where many mothers currently face significant challenges in reaching healthcare services.
The maternity ward is part of Kipyegon’s vision to give back to her community, combining her global athletic success with tangible efforts to improve the health and well-being of local families.
The project also marks a significant collaboration between Kipyegon, her corporate sponsors, and local healthcare partners.
Keringet, located in Nakuru County, is home to many expectant mothers who must travel up to 35 kilometers to access hospital services.
Long distances, poor road networks, and limited local facilities have historically contributed to preventable maternal and neonatal deaths in the area.
“Too many women in our community go into labor full of hope, only to face complications or even lose their lives because medical care is far away,” Kipyegon said during the groundbreaking ceremony.
“The Dare to Dream Maternity Ward is about giving mothers safety, dignity, and hope, and ensuring that every child has the best possible start in life.”
The facility is expected to reduce maternal and newborn mortality, provide emergency obstetric care, and support local healthcare workers in delivering high-quality services.
The project is funded and supported by Nike, Kipyegon’s main sponsor.
The company said the maternity ward is part of its legacy initiatives, aimed at helping athletes make a lasting impact in their communities beyond sport.
Nike officials attended the launch and emphasized that the initiative represents a commitment to community health and empowerment.
In addition to corporate backing, the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception will partner with the facility to provide professional healthcare services, including prenatal and postnatal care, emergency obstetric interventions, and neonatal support.
Local leaders and clergy also attended the ceremony.
Faith Kipyegon, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and world-record holder in the 1500m, emphasized that the maternity ward reflects her personal connection to her community.
“The ward is my way of giving back,” Kipyegon said.
“It’s not just about running and medals. It’s about creating opportunities for mothers and children to live healthier, safer lives. I want the next generation to dream bigger because they have the support they need from the very start.”
Nike representatives echoed the sentiment, noting that the project illustrates the power of athlete-driven social impact, showing that sports success can translate into lasting benefits for communities.