Celebrated author Prof. Ngugi wa Thiong’o and philanthropist Dr. Manu
Chandaria are among 180 Kenyans proposed for recognition as National Heroes in
2025.
The list features individuals from diverse fields, including literature,
philanthropy, sports, music, governance, and media.
The late Prof. Ngugi is being honoured for his role
as Kenya’s foremost author and one of Africa’s most influential writers. His
career, spanning more than five decades, has taken Kenyan literature to the
global stage.
His works, translated into many languages, are studied internationally and have earned scholarly and cultural recognition.
Ngugi’s advocacy for indigenous
languages and cultural sovereignty has also strengthened Kenya’s democratic
discourse.
Dr. Chandaria is being recognised for his philanthropy through the Chandaria
Foundation, which, for over 60 years, has supported education, health, arts,
environment, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment.
His initiatives have transformed lives and inspired generations across Kenya
and beyond.
Also on the list is Presidential advisor on
Women's affairs, Harriette Chiggai, who is being celebrated for advancing human
rights and gender equality.
Music producer Ted Josiah is being honoured for pioneering Kenya’s urban
sound and mentoring artists such as Kalamashaka, Necessary Noize, Suzzana
Owiyo, and Poxi Presha.
In sports, Nicholas Musonye is recognised for
his contribution to soccer development in East and Central Africa and for
guiding Kenya’s preparations to host the 2024 African Nations Championship and
the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Harambee Stars players Wesley Ogam Rabok, Omar Aboud, Bryne Omondi, and
Alpha Onyango are being honoured for their roles in the team’s historic 2024
CHAN performance.
Team Manager Nicodemus Kimathi Musau is also recognised for integrating
technology and sports science into the squad’s success.
In the media, Citizen TV anchor Mwanahamisi Hamadi
is being feted for her program Mwanamke Bomba,
which highlights the achievements of Kenyan women in entrepreneurship,
innovation, and community leadership.
Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir
is being honoured for his leadership in governance and devolution, as well as
global city diplomacy initiatives that have positioned Mombasa as a model for
innovation.
Dr. Chris Kiptoo is recognised for environmental
conservation through the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Program, which has
restored over 2,700 hectares of degraded forest, planted 300,000 avocado trees,
and supported more than 28,000 households with eco-friendly farming and clean
energy solutions.
The recognition of these figures underscores
Kenya’s commitment to celebrating excellence, resilience, and service across
all sectors of society.
The National Heroes Council opened the process for public nominations in
July 2025, inviting individuals, organisations, and institutions to propose
candidates.
“Pursuant to provisions of Section 22 of the Act, the public is hereby
notified that the Council is calling for submission of proposals for nomination
of suitable persons to be recommended for declaration as national heroes,” the
notice read.
Nominations were to be submitted by July 21, 2025, for consideration for
Mashujaa Day on October 20.
Nominees must have selflessly contributed to the country in one of 14 areas,
including liberation struggle, spiritual leadership, arts, scholarship,
peace-making, statesmanship, entrepreneurship, human rights, national cohesion,
and environmental conservation.
They are also expected to demonstrate values in line with Article 10 of the
Constitution, such as courage, perseverance, commitment, innovativeness, and
discipline
