Raila Odinga Among 264 Kenyans Honoured During Mashujaa Day Celebrations
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is among 264 Kenyans being honoured during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
Raila, the late Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, is receiving posthumous recognition for his decades-long contribution to Kenya’s struggle for multi-party democracy, constitutional reforms and devolution.
The celebrations, presided over by President William Ruto on Tuesday, October 20, recognise individuals whose contributions in politics, law, public service, culture, sports and other fields have helped shape Kenya’s history and development.
Other notable personalities being honoured include veteran politician William Ole Ntimama, Senior Counsel Pheroze Nowrojee and former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga.
Ntimama, who died in 2016, is being recognised for his public service and advocacy for community rights. Nowrojee is celebrated for his contributions to human rights, constitutionalism and the legal profession, while Mutunga is recognised for his role in judicial reforms and constitutional governance during his tenure as Chief Justice from 2011 to 2016.
Also among the honourees is Amina Mohammed, a prominent Kenyan public servant and diplomat who has held senior positions in national and international institutions.
National Heroes Council Chief Executive Officer Charles Wambia said the council selected individuals who had made outstanding contributions to the country’s development in their respective fields.
The 264 honourees have been recognised across 14 categories, including the liberation struggle, spiritual leadership, indigenous knowledge, cultural values and practices, arts, sports, scholarship and professionalism.
Some recipients are being honoured posthumously in recognition of their lasting legacies and sacrifices.
Raila’s recognition comes following his death on October 15, 2025, which sparked tributes across the political divide and renewed reflection on his role in Kenya’s democratic journey.
His political career spanned decades of opposition politics, detention, reform advocacy and public service. He served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 during the Grand Coalition Government.
The Mashujaa Day honours celebrate the individuals whose sacrifices, achievements and service have helped shape Kenya’s political, social, cultural and institutional development.
