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 national celebrations, presided over by President William Ruto on Tuesday, October 20, recognise individuals whose contributions across various fields have helped shape the country’s history and development.
Other prominent figures 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, while Nowrojee’s legacy includes his contribution to human rights advocacy, constitutionalism and the legal profession.
Mutunga, who served as Chief Justice from 2011 to 2016, is among those recognised for his contribution to judicial reforms and constitutional governance.
Also among the honourees is Amina Mohammed, a prominent public servant and diplomat who has held senior positions in Kenya and international institutions.
The recognition comes as the country marks Mashujaa Day, an annual national holiday dedicated to celebrating Kenyans whose sacrifices, achievements and service have contributed to the nation’s progress.
National Heroes Council Chief Executive Officer Charles Wambia said the council had identified individuals who had gone above and beyond in their respective disciplines to contribute to the country’s development.
Some of those selected are being honoured posthumously in recognition of their enduring legacies and sacrifices.
The 264 honourees have been recognised across 14 categories, reflecting the diverse contributions of Kenyans to national life.
The categories include the liberation struggle, spiritual leadership, indigenous knowledge, cultural values and practices, arts, sports, scholarship and professionalism, among other fields.
Raila’s recognition comes nearly a year after his death on October 15, 2025, which triggered tributes from 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, including his tenure as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013.
The Mashujaa Day honours underscore the role of individuals whose efforts have influenced Kenya’s political, social, cultural and institutional development.
