Kipyegon, Kiptum named among 100 Most Influential Africans

The New African Magazine has released its list of the 100 most influential Africans for 2023. Among the notable Kenyans on the list are world record holders Faith Kipyegon and Kelvin Kiptum. Other Kenyan influencers include Chao Maina (historian), James Irungu Mwangi (environmentalist), and Wanjira Mathai (environmentalist). The list also features high-profile individuals such as President William Ruto, Chef Ali Mandhry, Wanuri Kaihiu (filmmaker), and James Mwangi (CEO of Equity Bank).

Kiptum had a successful year, winning several major marathons in the Abbott World Majors Series, including London and Chicago. He also made headlines by surpassing Eliud Kipchoge’s world record with a finishing time of 2:00.35 at the Chicago Marathon. Meanwhile, Kipyegon had an extraordinary year, setting three world records and claiming various titles. The talented runner from Keringet, Nakuru County, broke records in the 5000m, one mile, and 1500m events. Her one-mile world record currently stands at 4:07.64. However, her 5000m world record was later surpassed by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay with a time of 14:00.21 at the Prefontaine Classic in September. Kipyegon also brought glory to Kenya by winning two gold medals at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary and securing a bronze medal at the World Road Running Championships in Riga, Latvia.

Among the other influential Africans on the list are South African rugby legend Siya Kolisi, Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, CAF president Patrice Motsepe, and Eritrean cyclist Biniam Girmay.