In a moment of continental diplomacy and recognition of global statesmanship, President William Ruto on Monday conferred Kenya’s highest national honour — the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), First Class — to former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
In a statement released from State House, Nairobi, President Ruto lauded Ban Ki-moon’s over 50-year-long public service career, describing him as “an extraordinary leader who built bridges, reformed the UN, gave voice to the voiceless and fostered progress towards shared goals.”
“During his tenure at the UN,” the President noted, “he mobilised the world to confront global challenges ranging from the climate crisis and global health to gender inequality.”
The award is the highest civilian recognition in Kenya and is typically bestowed upon individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country or the global community. Ban Ki-moon’s honour comes as Kenya continues to strengthen its profile in global diplomacy, multilateralism, and environmental leadership.
The former UN Secretary-General, who served from 2007 to 2016, was also hailed for his role in shaping international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event at State House underscores Nairobi’s strategic positioning as a hub of international diplomacy, particularly on climate and peace issues — themes closely aligned with Ban Ki-moon’s legacy.
