Government explains reason for honouring 31 sports heroes during Mashujaa Day
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Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 20.10.25. | 16:47
Football players from Harambee Stars were celebrated for their historic run to the quarter-finals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN)
Harambee Stars headlined the list of 31 sports personalities honoured during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.
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The National Heroes Council selected the athletes for national hero status as part of the 180-person list for 2025, released on Sunday, 19, October.
This year’s honourees were chosen through a rigorous nationwide nomination and vetting process coordinated by the National Heroes Council in partnership with the Ministry of Interior.
According to Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, the process drew submissions from county governments, public institutions, civil society, and ordinary citizens.
The nominees were evaluated based on their contributions to Kenya’s unity, progress, and heritage, guided by integrity, impact, and the provisions of the National Heroes Act, 2014.
Football players from Harambee Stars were celebrated for their historic run to the quarter-finals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), in just their debut tournament.
Leading the football honourees were Wesley Ogam Rabok, Omar Aboud, Bryne Omondi, Alpha Onyango, and Nicodemus Kimathi Musau, recognised for their excellence in scoring, leadership, goalkeeping, midfield performance, and team management, including the integration of technology and sports science.
“Omar was honoured for his role in the Kenyan football sector and with Harambee Stars. He captained the team during the 2024 CHAN and led them to the quarter-finals,” read the statement.
“Nicodemus was honoured for his contribution to the Kenyan football sector and Harambee Stars.
As Team Manager and Data Analyst, he spearheaded the integration of technology and sports science, supporting the team’s historic run to the 2024 CHAN quarter-finals.”
Athletics stars honoured included Kennedy Omwange Ndemo for training athletes and supporting sports scholarships, as well as Clinton Aluvi Owatinya, Cynthia Chepkirui, Nancy Chepngetich Makani, and Erick Sikuku for medal-winning performances in continental and international competitions.
“Kennedy was honoured for his contribution to sports, particularly athletics. He has trained athletes and other professionals in the sports ecosystem who have delivered stellar performances.
Through his philanthropic organisation, Alidais Group Kenya, he has shaped and nurtured young talent and helped them secure sports scholarships nationally, regionally, and internationally.”
Motorsport trailblazers Pauline Sheghu and Linet Ayuko Osiako were recognised for their podium finishes in World Rally Championship events and for pioneering women’s participation in motorsport.
Inclusive sports champions Sharon Bitok Jeptarus, Lucas Wandia Wanjiru, Anne Lichina, Jairus Ongeta, Kennedy Ogada, and Fabian Kungu Gathoni were celebrated for their achievements in the Deaflympics, Paralympics, and adaptive sports.
Combat and martial arts figures Clarence Mwakio Ingalwa, Mourice Omondi Aloo, and Faith Ogallo were honoured for their medal-winning performances and coaching contributions.
Team sports honourees included Vincent Ongera Onsomu in rugby, Mildred Omari Cheche in football development, Parin Simiyu in netball, and Abraham Mutala Mukulu in volleyball.
Strength and combat athletes Rebecca Koroso Kerubo and Morris Okolla Alfayo were recognised for their achievements in hammer throw and professional boxing, respectively.
Behind-the-scenes contributors Nicholas Chumba Musonye, Shadrack Andenga Odinga, Catherine Mutwa Makau, and James Ngarariga Kagambi were celebrated for their impact in sports administration, media reporting, coaching, and mountaineering.
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