Kenya Sevens and Kabras Sugar forward Kevin Wekesa has been named one of 15 finalists for the 2025 International Olympic Committee (IOC) Climate Action Award, a global accolade recognizing individuals and organizations within the Olympic Movement making significant strides in addressing climate change through sports.
Wekesa, an influential member of the Kenya 7s men’s team, earned his nomination through his pioneering “Play Green” initiative. The project promotes environmentally conscious practices within the sporting community, emphasizing sustainability and climate action.
As part of “Play Green,” Wekesa has supplied reusable aluminium water bottles to both the men’s and women’s national rugby teams. The initiative has already eliminated an estimated 144 single-use plastic bottles during each training session, saving nearly 1,000 bottles every week. This simple measure has had a meaningful impact on reducing plastic waste within Kenyan rugby.
The program’s reach extends beyond national teams, impacting over 40 schools across the country. “Play Green” includes mentorship programs and sustainability workshops designed to inspire young athletes to adopt eco-friendly practices. Schoolchildren participating in the program have already planted more than 2,300 trees, reflecting Wekesa’s commitment to using rugby as a platform for environmental stewardship.
Wekesa now faces strong competition from fellow global athletes recognized for their sustainability efforts. Among the other finalists are Australian race walker Rhydian Cowley, New Zealand hockey player Hugo Inglis, and Canadian athletes Oliver Scholfield and Gabrielle Smith, who have championed climate and environmental initiatives in their respective sports.
The winners of the IOC Climate Action Award will be announced ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, highlighting outstanding efforts that make tangible impacts on environmental conservation worldwide.
Kevin Wekesa’s recognition underscores the growing role athletes play in promoting sustainability and climate action, proving that sports can be a powerful force for positive environmental change.
