NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyan skater Kevin Kiarie Ruhiu has appealed to the Ministry of Sports for urgent assistance to secure a Panama transit visa that would allow him to travel to Paraguay for the World Skate Games.
Kiarie said he had been cleared and registered for the competition by the federation after qualifying at the Africa Skate Games.
In a statement shared on social media, the skater said he had met all the requirements for the event and already obtained a visa for Paraguay.
“I was cleared and registered for the World Skate Games by the federation after qualifying in the Africa Skate Games,” Kiarie said.
He said the remaining challenge was a Panama transit visa, which he applied for in late August.
According to Kiarie, approval of the transit visa now requires intervention from the Ministry of Sports because Panama does not have an embassy in Kenya.
“I have all the requirements & necessities for the event. I have a Paraguay visa. I applied for a Panama transit visa late August, it’s approval right now relies on Intervention from the ministry, Panama has no embassy in Kenya,” he said.
Skater Seeks Government Intervention
Kiarie noted that skating is among the sports registered under the Ministry of Sports and appealed for government assistance to resolve the visa issue.
“Skating is among the 149 registered sports under the Ministry of sports. I hope we get the necessary support,” he said.
The athlete said he was ready to travel immediately if the necessary intervention was secured.
“If the Ministry wishes to support, I can leave for Paraguay today,” he added.
His appeal comes as athletes prepare to represent Kenya at the World Skate Games, with travel documentation remaining a key requirement for international competitions.
