230 heroes to be honoured on Mashujaa day

The first Kenyan female to win a grand slam juniors, Angela Okutoyi training at The Nairobi Club on May 3, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The National Heroes Council has invited 230 heroes to this year's celebration to appreciate and recognise their efforts in telling the national story.

"The council is happy to celebrate young heroes including Angela Okutoyi, Sylvia Cheptunot, Mary Moraa and others, who have put our country in the spotlight through their achievements," said Dr Adan Wachu, the chair of National Heroes Council.

According to Wachu, the heroes were identified and awarded across a broad criterion from various categories, including the liberation struggle, philanthropy, spiritual leadership, indigenous knowledge, arts, sports, research, human rights, environmental conservation, national cohesion and integration, and entrepreneurship and industry.

"Our mandate is to provide a legal framework for recognition of honouring national heroes," said Wachu.

He added that the council identifies national heroes, oversees properties and institutions relating to heroes, and also enforces sanctions and penalties for disgraced national heroes.

Wachu said the council is tasked with huge responsibilities and requires funding.

"We call on all public and private stakeholders to work with us in fulfilling our mandate and responsibilities through funding and empowerment of the council," he said.

The State established the council under the Kenya Heroes Act No 5 of 204 in accordance with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage in the State Department of Culture and Heritage to formulate and implement policies relating to national heroes.