Kenya today, October 20, 2025, honoured over 160 outstanding individuals during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County. Presided over by President William Ruto, the event celebrated citizens whose work, service, and innovation have made lasting contributions to the nation’s growth, unity, and heritage.
Among the honourees were several educators, researchers, and human rights advocates whose efforts have shaped Kenya’s learning landscape and expanded access to education. The National Heroes Council, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, coordinated the nationwide nomination and vetting process.
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 service and sacrifice have influenced Kenya’s development and identity.
Nominations were received from county governments, civil society organisations, state agencies, and members of the public, before a final list of heroes was submitted to the presidency.
ALSO READ;
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Courage, Innovation, and Service,” highlighted the importance of knowledge and learning as key drivers of national transformation. The celebrations placed a strong focus on the contributions of educators, scholars, and advocates who have inspired progress through research, mentorship, and empowerment.
Among those honoured for their influence in Kenya’s education and knowledge sectors were leading scholars and innovators whose work continues to transform learning, governance, and national development.
Prof. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o (Posthumous) – Internationally acclaimed writer and scholar recognised for advancing African literature and identity.
Prof. Bitange Ndemo, CBS – Recognised for promoting digital transformation and ICT innovation in governance.
Dr. Jemimah Kariri Maina – Honoured 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 – Recognised for contributions to science education and curriculum reform.
Prof. Olive Mugenda – Honoured for exemplary leadership in higher education and institutional reform.
Dr. Vincent Onywera – Recognised 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 – Honoured for advancing sports education and anti-doping awareness.
Prof. Henry Mutoro – Recognised for his role in promoting indigenous languages and cultural research.
Dr. Henry Chakava (Posthumous) – Honoured for publishing African authors and promoting local literature.
ALSO READ;
HUMAN RIGHTS AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Also celebrated were educationists and advocates promoting access to learning, gender equality, and the protection of vulnerable groups.
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 education access 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 recognised 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.
ALSO READ:
How you use your long school holiday can make or break your life, Clerics warn youth
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 – Recognised 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.
As Kenya marks another year of honouring its heroes, the recognition of educators and researchers serves as a reminder that knowledge remains one of the country’s most powerful tools for transformation, inspiring a generation committed to service, innovation, and equality.
By Mercy Kokwon
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
