By Our Correspondent
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui and President Uhuru Kenyatta’s sister, Kristina Pratt, are among Kenyans conferred with State honours by President William Ruto for their distinguished service to the nation.
In a special Jamhuri Day honours list gazetted on December 11, 2025, President Ruto recognised hundreds of individuals across public service, the military, judiciary, business, healthcare, and civil society.
“I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, confer Awards and Honours to the following persons,” read part of Gazette Notice Number 18367.
Nine Kenyans received the country’s highest decoration, the Order of the Golden Heart. Seven were named Elder while two were recognised as Moran. The award places them among the most distinguished honourees in this year’s Jamhuri Day list, reflecting their contributions to public service and national development.
Kinyanjui, the former Nakuru Governor, was awarded the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.), one of the country’s highest civilian honours. Pratt received the same accolade for her decades of public service and philanthropy, including her 23-year tenure as chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya.
Other recipients included Cabinet Secretaries Dr. Deborah Barasa Mulongo and William Kabogo, Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, former IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati’s widow Mary Wanyonyi, and Attorney General Dorcas Agik.
Senior military leaders, judges, diplomats, and professionals were also recognised. The largest contingent was honoured with the Order of the Burning Spear, with 217 individuals appointed Chief, 74 as Elder, and 217 as Moran. Additionally, 164 citizens received the Order of the Grand Warrior, while 39 were awarded the Silver Star for gallantry.
In recognition of distinguished service, two individuals received the Distinguished Service Medal, while the Head of State also issued Commendations to 189 members of the military and 88 civilians for their exemplary contributions. The list included several posthumous awards, honouring the legacy of those who served the nation faithfully.
The honours, celebrating merit, patriotism, and service, will be formally presented during the national Jamhuri Day celebrations luncheon at State House, Nairobi.