As a kinder 2018 ends, here are my bouquets to year's unsung heroes

It is yet another end of year. Having mourned many friends, colleagues and relatives over the years, I have learnt not to take the end of the year for-granted. In 2017 I “jumped” the year in Vihiga County, burying one of my closest friends and mentor Andrew Anami. Without spending too much ink on the subject, let me say that I am yet to meet a more generous, openhearted, loving human being as Andrew was. A couple of weeks earlier I had been in Siaya burying my good friend Owino Magana, the champion chess player whose many accomplishments went uncelebrated, save by his family.

On that front, this year has been kinder. While there were tough moments, there is also a lot to celebrate as we say goodbye to 2018. As I have traditionally done, I want to end the year with a couple of bouquets to people who, in my limited view, stood out in 2018 but were largely uncelebrated. Because it is the season of goodwill, there will be no barbs issued for those that were a disappointment though they could fill a whole column!