List: Honorees for Mashujaa Day in Kitui

Honoring Kenyan Heroes on Mashujaa Day

On October 20, 2025, the nation came together to celebrate Mashujaa Day at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County. The event, presided over by President William Ruto, honored more than 160 individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped Kenya’s history, development, and identity. These honourees were recognized for their remarkable work in various fields such as freedom, entrepreneurship, culture, sports, human rights, environmental conservation, and peace.

The names of this year’s honourees were proposed through a nationwide vetting process coordinated by the National Heroes Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and National Administration. Nominations were received from county governments, state agencies, civil society organizations, and members of the public. Each nominee was assessed based on their impact, integrity, and contribution to Kenya’s development, unity, or heritage.

According to Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, the exercise was guided by the National Heroes Act, 2014, which mandates the recognition of individuals and groups whose exemplary service or sacrifice has shaped Kenya’s national identity. This year’s Mashujaa Day theme underscores the importance of celebrating courage, innovation, and service—qualities that continue to define Kenya’s heroes and inspire generations.

Liberation Struggle

• Hon. Gitu wa Kahengeri, OGW – Recognized for his contribution to the Mau Mau liberation struggle; detained at Athi River and Manda Island for nearly seven years.
• Muchiri M’Mwitha – Honored for supplying food and water to Mau Mau fighters and mapping escape routes in Mt. Kenya forests.
• Mwararia Emilio M’kanga – Recognized for leading Mau Mau operational logistics and oath-taking in Lower Mt. Kenya.
• Lucia Leonard Cianjoka – Honored for commanding Mau Mau operations and sustaining morale among fighters.
• Dorcas Kibura Ngahu – Recognized for delivering food and intelligence to Mau Mau fighters and caring for the injured.
• Harisson Githaiga Githaibi – Honored for courage and resilience during the Mau Mau liberation struggle.
• Hon. Fanuel Walter Odede (Posthumous) – Recognized for fundraising to defend the Kapenguria Six alongside Pio Gama Pinto and others.
• Stephen Nyang’or Aloo (Posthumous) – Honored for supplying Mau Mau fighters with uniforms and guns; executed by British forces.
• Haji Galma Dido (Posthumous) – Recognized for promoting peace and unity in Northern Kenya; assassinated on a peace mission to Sericho.
• Githae wa Kiguru – Honored for advising and financially supporting Mau Mau fighters.
• Njeri wa Ndugo (Posthumous) – Recognized for initiating resistance through the Kikuyu Central Association; endured brutal colonial detention.
• Kirongothi wa Ndegwa (Posthumous) – Honored for his leadership in the Kikuyu Central Association and enduring colonial torture.
• Gatabaki wa Mundati (Posthumous) – Recognized as a founder of the Kikuyu Central Association and for resisting colonial rule.
• Lukas Pkech (Posthumous) – Feted for spiritual resistance to colonial rule as a Pokot elder and follower of Dini ya Msambwa; died in the 1950 Kolloa Massacre.
• Chief Ngoleyo Wero Tomele (Posthumous) – Recognized for defending African identity through Dini ya Msambwa and martyred in the Kolloa Massacre.

Entrepreneurship and Industry

• Judy Mwende Mutunga – Founder of Ustawi Foods; developed nutritious fortified flours addressing malnutrition.
• David Wambua Joel, OGW – Recognized for leading agribusiness innovation and infrastructure projects such as Masinga and Kiambere dams.
• FA James Wanguyu – Founder of Standard Investment Bank; pioneered Kenya’s capital markets and Islamic investment division.
• Victor Otieno Maura – Established a palm oil pressing unit in Siaya County, creating jobs and boosting local economies.
• Dr. Luke Mwiti Kinoti – Co-founder of Fusion Capital Group; mobilised over KSh 200 billion in private equity investments.
• Fatma Abubakar Abdalla Elmaawy – Recognized for empowering startups and SMEs, and promoting ethical business practices.
• Tobias Ouma Alando – Honored for leadership in Kenya’s manufacturing sector and policy advocacy for women and SMEs.
• Clement Tulezi – CEO of Kenya Flower Council; promoted eco-friendly technologies and climate-smart agriculture.
• Julius Festus Mutinda Munene – Created affordable composite dam liners, reducing plastic waste and boosting smallholder farming.
• Charles Maina Thuo – Founder of Apexloads; digitised freight logistics and improved trust in East Africa’s transport industry.
• Salat Mohamud Mohamed – Group CEO of Hass Petroleum; expanded operations to 10 countries and promoted clean energy.
• Bertrand Lubanga Ngaywa – Recognized for promoting sustainable development and clean energy in East Africa’s construction sector.

Human Rights

• Dr. Dianah Kamande Wanjiku, HSC – Founder of Come Together Widows and Orphans; advocates for widows’ and children’s rights.
• Philip Kiprono Muge – Coordinates wheelchair distribution programs promoting dignity for persons with disabilities.
• Benson Ebei Ewoi – Advocates for rights and access to education for persons with disabilities in Turkana County.
• Daniel Mutai – Educator and advocate for inclusive education for learners with disabilities.
• Dr. Hellen Wambui Nkuraiya – Founder of a rescue centre for women and girls affected by gender-based violence.
• Davice Otieno Wita – Human rights activist focused on rescuing and rehabilitating vulnerable children.
• Tabitha Ruguru Kibue – Advocate for education and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Kajiado County.
• Fatuma Ibrahim Hakar – Campaigns against FGM, early marriage, and gender-based violence through GirlKind Kenya.
• Yasmin Mohammed Nassur – Innovated pad dispensers and founded a feminist information centre in Kibera.
• Rahma Gulam Abbas – Fights gender-based violence and promotes survivor empowerment.
• Moses Mang’eni Chirandine – Police officer recognized for protecting children and prosecuting GBV cases in Busia.
• Suleiman Hamisi Dzole – Advocates for gender equity and women’s empowerment through policy and community engagement.
• Lotaruk Ekuam Nahashon – Established community-based structures to combat FGM and GBV in Isiolo County.
• Daniel Otieno Randa – Promotes inclusive education in TVET institutions for learners with disabilities.
• Dr. Elizabeth Jemutai Keitany – Supports education, women’s empowerment, and community health initiatives.
• Dr. Josephine Kulea – Founder of Samburu Girls Foundation; rescued over 2,000 girls from FGM and early marriage.
• Nancy Wangechi Ndegwa – Founder of a CBO that rehabilitates and mentors vulnerable youth in Nakuru County.
• Esther Nyambura Gathuo – Advocates for persons with disabilities and improved access to assistive technology.
• Shimsia Abdullahi Hassan – Promotes rights of marginalised communities and combats retrogressive practices.
• Joyce Daudi Nzulwa – Counsellor advocating for disability inclusion and gender equality.
• Hon. Harriette Igonga Chiggai – Recognized for advancing gender equality and legal reform through public service.
• Carolyne Adhiambo Kisuge – Advocates for children with neurodiversity and promotes inclusion through education.
• Caroline Naikena Lentupuru – Fights FGM and secures scholarships for underprivileged girls in Baringo.
• Dr. Roselyne David Nyakona – Advocate for gender equality and protection of women’s rights.

Philanthropy

• Dr. Manu Chandaria, EBS – Recognized for decades of philanthropy and social investment through the Chandaria Foundation.
• Josephine Koki Mutua – Founder of Koki Foundation; provides food and education support to orphans and vulnerable children.
• Haggai Ben Onyango – Cyclist who uses cycling to raise awareness and funds for children with life-threatening medical conditions.
• Bishop Titus Masika, EBS (Posthumous) – Honored for humanitarian service through Operation Mwolyo Out and famine relief initiatives.
• Maryanne Njambi Njoroge – Runs a feeding programme for homeless families and children in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
• Bishop Dr. David Muriithi Njuguna – Founder of House of Grace Church; supports orphanages and underprivileged families.
• Dr. Joyce Laboso (Posthumous) – Recognized for empowering women in leadership and championing education for girls.
• Peter Ndirangu Kihara – Founder of Ndirangu Foundation; promotes youth mentorship and rehabilitation programmes.
• Faith Wambui Gachanja – Philanthropist providing sanitary pads, mentorship, and scholarships for schoolgirls.

Arts and Culture

• Ted Josiah – Music producer and mentor recognized for shaping Kenya’s contemporary music industry.
• Paul Julius Nunda (Jua Cali) – Pioneer of Genge music; celebrated for promoting Kenyan urban culture.
• Issah Mmari Wangui (E-Sir, Posthumous) – Honored for revolutionizing Kenyan hip-hop and inspiring young musicians.
• Faith Nziva Kithele – Veteran Kamba gospel musician celebrated for over 30 years in the music industry.
• Prof. Ngugi wa Thiong’o (Posthumous) – Internationally acclaimed writer and scholar recognized for advancing African literature and identity.
• Dr. Henry Chakava (Posthumous) – Honored for his role in publishing African authors and promoting local literature.
• Joyce Omondi Waihiga – Gospel musician and media personality promoting inspirational music and mentorship.
• Suzzana Owiyo – Celebrated for preserving traditional Luo music and fusing it with contemporary sounds.
• David Mathenge (Nameless) – Recognized for a long-standing contribution to Kenya’s music and creative industry.
• Eric Omondi – Celebrated for innovation in comedy and entertainment that has redefined Kenyan humour.
• Nadia Mukami – Honored for championing women in music and mentoring young artists.
• Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, MBS – Recognized for promoting creative industry standards and local content through policy reform.
• Ng’ang’a Njoroge – Theatre pioneer honored for advancing stage acting and nurturing performing arts.
• Ruth Nyambura Ndulu Maingi – Film and TV actress celebrated for telling Kenyan stories through local productions.
• Joseph Kinuthia (Omosh Tahidi High) – Recognized for decades of contribution to television drama and youth entertainment.

Indigenous Knowledge

• Mama Rael Jerop Chemirmir – Recognized for preserving traditional herbal knowledge and maternal care practices.
• Mzee Komen Kiptugen – Honored for his knowledge of traditional conflict resolution among the Kalenjin.
• Mama Dama Anyango Oduor – Celebrated for indigenous healing and environmental preservation in Siaya County.
• Mzee Ezekiel Odhiambo Ogutu – Known for preserving traditional Luo fishing and boat-making skills.
• Mama Chepchirchir Sang – Recognized for her expertise in traditional midwifery and community healthcare.
• Mzee Abdalla Mohamed Abubakar – Custodian of Swahili cultural heritage in Lamu and promoter of Islamic education.
• Mama Esther Wanjiru Kiruthu – Honored for preserving Kikuyu traditional songs and cultural rituals.

Sports

• Vincent Ongera Onsomu – Rugby legend honored for representing Kenya internationally and mentoring young players.
• Nicholas Musonye – Long-serving football administrator recognized for strengthening football management in East Africa.
• Mourice Omondi Aloo – Karate pioneer and trainer who has produced top martial arts athletes in Kenya.
• Pauline Sheghu – Motorsport rally driver recognized for breaking gender barriers in rallying.
• Linet Ayuko Osiako – Motorsport competitor celebrated for promoting women’s participation in motorsport.
• Clinton Aluvi Owatinya – Honored for winning gold at the African Athletics Youth Championships.
• Cynthia Chepkirui – Recognized for securing gold in African Under-18 Athletics Championships.
• Nancy Chepngetich Makani – Celebrated for her achievements in international middle-distance running.
• Beatrice Chebet – Honored for her achievements as a world cross-country and 5,000m champion.
• Faith Kipyegon – Celebrated for multiple world titles and record-breaking performances in middle-distance athletics.
• Eliud Kipchoge – Recognized for his global record in marathon running and sports diplomacy.
• Ferdinand Omanyala – Celebrated as Africa’s fastest man and ambassador for clean sports.
• Mary Moraa – Honored for representing Kenya with distinction in 400m and 800m events.
• Caroline Nyaga – Celebrated long-distance athlete contributing to Kenya’s athletics excellence.
• Abdi Nasser Muktar – Recognized for grassroots football development in Northern Kenya.
• Margaret Nyairera Wambui – Honored for promoting inclusivity and resilience in athletics.
• Rashid Echesa – Recognized for his role in promoting sports development in Western Kenya.
• Charles Ouma Kanyingi – Honored for his work in promoting sports journalism and youth engagement.
• Nancy Naliaka Namalwa – Pioneer of women’s football and founder of the Naliaka Ladies Football Academy.
• Samuel Kamau Wanjiru (Posthumous) – Celebrated for winning Kenya’s first Olympic marathon gold in Beijing 2008.

Cultural Values and Spiritual Leadership

• Bishop Alkan Lesuuda – Promotes peace and cohesion through interfaith dialogue in Northern Kenya.
• Sheikh Abdullahi Abdi – Chairman of the National Muslim Leaders Forum; advocates for unity and national harmony.
• Archbishop Anthony Muheria – Honored for moral leadership and community development.
• Bishop Thomas Kogo – Recognized for mentoring youth and promoting peace in the North Rift.
• Rev. Canon Rosemary Mbogo – Celebrated for championing women in spiritual leadership and church reform.
• Rev. Dr. David Oginde – Honored for his role in civic education and ethical leadership.
• Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome – Recognized for promoting peaceful coexistence and tolerance across faiths.
• Bishop George Mechumo – Celebrated for his role in interfaith peacebuilding in Western Kenya.
• Bishop Elizabeth Thuiya – Honored for advancing inclusivity and women’s leadership in the church.
• Rev. Sammy Wainaina – Recognized for bold advocacy on integrity, accountability, and public morality.

Scholarship, Education, and Research

• Prof. Bitange Ndemo, CBS – Recognized for promoting digital transformation and ICT innovation in governance.
• Dr. Jemimah Kariri Maina – Honored for pioneering research in mental health and child development.
• Prof. Collette Suda – Celebrated for advancing higher education and gender equity in academia.
• Prof. Raphael Munavu – Recognized for contributions to science education and curriculum reform.
• Prof. Olive Mugenda – Honored for exemplary leadership in higher education and institutional reform.
• Dr. Vincent Onywera – Recognized for sports science research and promoting physical fitness in schools.
• Prof. Wanjiku Kabira – Celebrated for championing women’s rights and documenting Kenya’s political history.
• Dr. Ezekiel Kiprop – Honored for advancing sports education and anti-doping awareness.
• Prof. Henry Mutoro – Recognized for his role in promoting indigenous languages and cultural research.

Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution

• Elias Jama Noor – Recognized for mediating inter-clan conflicts and promoting peace in the North Eastern region.
• Henry Kiptoo Murey – Honored for facilitating reconciliation efforts between warring communities in Kerio Valley.
• Bishop (Dr.) Paul Korir – Celebrated for his interfaith peacebuilding initiatives in the Rift Valley.
• Dr. Adan Haji Abdi – Recognized for leading peace dialogues between pastoralist communities in Marsabit and Isiolo.
• Grace Munee Njagi – Honored for her role in early warning systems and peace education among women in Embu.
• Dr. Samwel Kobia – Celebrated for his contribution to peace and reconciliation through the National Cohesion and Integration Commission.
• Joseph Lomonyang – Recognized for his leadership in peacebuilding across Turkana and West Pokot border regions.
• Amina Hirsi Ibrahim – Honored for advancing interfaith dialogue and women’s involvement in peace processes.
• Lt. Col. (Rtd.) Denge Lugusa – Recognized for supporting ex-servicemen and community safety initiatives in Western Kenya.
• Bishop Joseph Obanyi Sagwe – Honored for fostering unity and peaceful coexistence among faith communities.
• Peter Kilonzo Nzioka – Celebrated for grassroots mediation efforts in Kitui and Makueni counties.
• Mama Sarah Wambui Gichuru – Recognized for her lifelong work in community reconciliation and mentorship of women peacebuilders.

Statesmanship and Governance

• Hon. Abdulswamad Nassir – Recognized for transformative leadership in Mombasa and commitment to good governance.
• Dr. Susan Jemtai Koech – Honored for stabilizing Kenya’s economy and steering key fiscal and banking reforms.
• Amb. Erastus Mwencha, EGH – Celebrated for strengthening Kenya’s regional diplomacy and integration within the AU and COMESA.
• Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, EGH – Recognized for his long-standing service in governance and economic policy.
• Hon. Johnstone Muthama – Honored for his contributions to multiparty democracy and legislative leadership.
• Hon. Charity Ngilu – Celebrated for pioneering women’s leadership and public service reform.
• Hon. Peter Kenneth – Recognized for excellence in public financial management and civic leadership.
• Hon. Martha Karua – Honored for decades of advocacy for constitutionalism, rule of law, and gender equality.
• Dr. Sally Kosgey – Celebrated for her diplomatic service and contributions to education and foreign policy.
• Hon. Amos Kimunya – Recognized for spearheading financial accountability and development policy during his public service.

National Cohesion and Unity

• Rev. Timothy Njoya – Honored for his courageous fight for democracy, justice, and national reconciliation.
• Dr. Hassan Ole Naado – Recognized for his leadership in promoting interfaith unity and national dialogue.
• Jane Muthoni Wanjiku – Celebrated for mobilizing women peace groups to foster unity after election violence.
• Joseph Kimemia Mwangi – Recognized for bridging ethnic divides through community dialogue programmes.
• Dr. Nelson Makanda – Honored for his role in the National Council of Churches of Kenya promoting peaceful coexistence.
• Prof. Gitile Naituli – Celebrated for promoting national cohesion through civic education and youth empowerment.
• Bishop Paul Njenga – Recognized for encouraging inter-ethnic harmony and reconciliation through the church.
• Dr. Abdalla Mohamed Kani – Honored for fostering unity among coastal communities through cultural dialogue.
• Grace Wanjiku Nyambura – Recognized for her leadership in women’s empowerment and reconciliation initiatives.

Environmental Conservation and Climate Action

• Dr. Isaac Kalua Green – Recognized for his leadership in environmental advocacy and sustainable development.
• Elizabeth Wathuti – Honored for her global environmental activism and youth mobilization for climate justice.
• Dr. Richard Leakey (Posthumous) – Celebrated for his lifelong work in wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts.
• Wanjira Mathai – Recognized for her work in advancing the Green Belt Movement and climate resilience initiatives.
• John Keen (Posthumous) – Honored for his early advocacy for environmental protection and land reform.
• Dr. Patrick Omondi – Celebrated for leading Kenya’s wildlife research and conservation science programmes.
• Jane Wanjiru Kamau – Recognized for promoting tree planting and environmental education in schools.
• Hussein Dado – Honored for championing mangrove restoration and community conservation in coastal Kenya.
• Dr. Rose Mwaura – Celebrated for advancing climate-smart agriculture among smallholder farmers.
• Samuel Kipngetich Lang’at – Recognized for innovation in renewable energy and clean cooking solutions.

Lifetime Achievement (Special Recognition)

• Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga – Recognized as a national hero for his lifelong struggle for democracy, reform, and national unity.
• Mwai Kibaki (Posthumous) – Honored for his leadership in economic transformation and national stability.
• Daniel Toroitich arap Moi (Posthumous) – Recognized for fostering peace and regional diplomacy.
• Prof. Wangari Maathai (Posthumous) – Celebrated for her global leadership in environmental conservation and women’s empowerment.
• Jomo Kenyatta (Posthumous) – Honored as Kenya’s founding father for leading the country to independence.