Ruto renames stadium as 157 heroes feted

Kiprugut Chumo Stadium, formerly Kericho Green Stadium. It was renamed in honour of Kiprugut Chumo, the first Kenyan Olympic medalist. [PCS]

President William Ruto has renamed Kericho Green Stadium, the venue of the 60th Mashujaa Day celebrations, after Kiprugut Chumo, the first Kenyan Olympic medalist.

Acknowledging Chumo's contributions to the nation through sports, the president said he deserved the honour, as the National Heroes Council rolled out 157 other awardees from different fields recognised during this year's celebrations at the stadium.

Among the 157, there were 20 freedom fighters; 14 living liberation fighters and six deceased after fighting for the nation.

The freedom fighters hailed from Kiambu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Machakos, Murang’a, Kisumu, Wajir, Makueni, Nandi, Kisii and Bungoma Counties.

Among the posthumous heroes and heroines included Koitalel Arap Samoei who was assassinated on October 19, 1905. Samoei led the Nandi people’s resistance against British Colonial Rule from 1890 until his death.

The hero, who held dual roles of chief spiritual and military leader, helped in security matters particularly the waging of war and negotiating for peace.

Four spiritual leaders from Uasin Gishu, Isiolo, Samburu and Elgeyo Marakwet counties were also celebrated for their contribution to peace in their respective counties, marred with insecurity.

“Qari Abdul-Razzaq, a teacher of the Holy Quran, is recognised for rehabilitating prisoners and helping thousands of vulnerable households in Isiolo County through the provision of emergency relief and medication during prolonged drought,” read the heroes list.

Six heroes and heroines were honoured for supporting cultural values and practices over the last year.

Among them was Hellen Jelimo who was recognised for preparing and administering natural medication for various ailments in Uasin Gishu County.

A further 20 Kenyans were feted for scholarship professionalism research that has assisted the country in transformation.

Patricia Gonzalez from the United States was honoured for improving the lives of cancer survivors around the world through her foundation.

“The Max Foundation delivers medication, technology and services to cancer patients, channelling over 10 million doses of cancer treatment to patients each year in 72 low and mid-income countries,” read the council’s list.

Eleven Kenyans from Embu, West Pokot, Turkana, Nakuru and Wajir were also celebrated for peacemaking and reconciliation exercises among communities.

The Statesmanship of six living and fallen Kenyans were recognised by the President, including Joshua Kiprotich’s effort in advocating against illicit brews in Kerio Valley in Uasin Gishu County and Tiaty in Baringo.

In sports, 24 Kenyans, including the World Record Holder for the 1500 meter Faith Kipyegon, were feted for their efforts in putting the country on the world’s map.

“Kipyegon is celebrated for her dedication to sports, breaking the world record holder for 1500 meters and for being the former world record holder for 5000 meters,” read the list.