The State Honorary Awards established under the National Honours Act of 2013, is occasionally conferred by the President to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service, patriotism, leadership, and integrity.
The award which symbolizes the grit and determination individuals to mark a difference to change the life of humanity and safeguard the national unity always run during the Mashujaa Day Celebration marked on October 20 annually.
They contain unique classes, deep meaning, and structure.
Order of the Golden Heart
This is the highest award in Kenya, introduced in 1966, and it’s awarded to individuals who have displayed exemplary qualities, achievements of heroism, patriotism or leadership.
It is divided into three classes:
- Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.)
- Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.)
- Moran of the Order of the Golden Heart (M.G.H.)
Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart- is always conferred to Presidents. The C.G.H. medal features a golden five-pointed star surrounded by a wreath and a ribbon bearing Kenya’s national colours. It symbolises selfless service, national unity, and excellence in leadership.
The award was first introduced in 1966 by Kenya’s founding President, Jomo Kenyatta, to honour individuals who made extraordinary contributions to the nation.
Its recipients include former Presidents Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, President William Ruto and the recent the late Ex-Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
ALSO READ:
The award represents national gratitude, heroism, sacrifice, leadership, and unity.
Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart, (E.G.H) is awarded to the sitting Deputy President, Speakers of the National Assembly and Senate, Cabinet Secretaries, the First and Second Ladies, Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service.
Moran of the Order of the Golden Heart (M.G.H.), is the third class category in the Order of the Golden Heart Award. The award is given to Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and Majority Leader of Parliament.
Order of the Burning Spear (OBS)
This award is presented to public dignitaries, professionals and exemplary members of the public service.
The Order is divided into three categories based on seniority which are;
- Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS)
- Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS)
- Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS)
President presents these awards to several Military personnel and professionals.
Order of the Grand Warrior (O.G.W)
This is an award presented to individuals in recognition of an outstanding service rendered to the country in different responsibilities and capacities. More importantly, it is an award presented to those who put their lives at risk to save their fellow countrymen.
The recipients of the O.G.W are those who leave a lasting image on their fellow countrymen by putting their country first before their personal feelings and interests.
Other Presidential awards are: Distinguished Conduct Order, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Uzalendo Award, and Head of State’s Commendation (H.S.C.): Military Division and Civilian Division
By Juma Ndigo
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
