UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

10/10/2024 | News release | Archived content

Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge welcomed as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador in Nairobi

The event was held after the appointment of Mr Kipchoge by UNESCO Director-General Ms Audrey Azoulay as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Sports, Integrity, and Values.

"I am deeply honored and humbled to accept the role of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Sport, Integrity, and Values," stated Mr Kipchoge. "This moment is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the power of sport to inspire, unite, and transform lives."

Born in Kenya's Kapsisiywa Nandi District in 1984, Mr Kipchoge is one of the greatest long-distance runners in the world. He was the marathon world record holder for several years, and won gold medals at the Olympic Games and World Championships. His unmatched marathon career reached a new level when Mr Kipchoge became the first person ever to run a marathon under two hours as part of the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in 2019.

Sport has always been more than just competition; it's a universal language that teaches us teamwork, self-discipline, and the importance of integrity. These values have shaped my journey as an athlete and continue to guide me in everything I do.

Eliud Kipchoge, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador

Focus on sports, education and environmental conservation

As part of his new role, Mr Kipchoge will help raise awareness on UNESCO's mandate, actions and programmes in the areas of sports, education and environmental sustainability. Mr Kipchoge is already championing children's education and knowledge, and the protection of the environment through his Foundation. He is determined to expand his engagement across Kenya, the African continent and beyond.

"Your appointment as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador is for your exceptional achievements as a runner and for much more: You truly embody the fundamental values of our Organization," said Ms Louise Haxthausen, Director of UNESCO's Regional Office in Nairobi. "We trust that your voice and actions will give new pace and speed to accelerate together our commitment to leave no one behind."

Ms Eva Maina, Minister, representing the Permanent Delegation of the Republic of Kenya to UNESCO stated: "We look forward to strengthening our partnership with you in UNESCO's areas of competence, and more specifically in sports diplomacy as we work towards achieving sustainable development for our communities."

As the United Nations leading agency for physical education and sport, UNESCO believes in the power of athletes as agents of change. They play a key role by inspiring and empowering the youngest generations beyond the sports field. Through their voices and actions, they can encourage youth not only to get physically active, but to become agents of change in their local communities.

Fit for Life' programme is one example of UNESCO's 'engagement to promote sport and physical education as tools to drive social transformations by focusing on well-being, education and employability, inclusion and equality.