The National Heroes Council has officially unveiled a list of 180 individuals proposed for national recognition in 2025. The names span various sectors including music, literature, education, environment, sports, governance, peacebuilding, and cultural preservation.
The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for 20th October 2025 (Mashujaa Day) at the Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, a symbolic location in Kenya’s independence history.
This year’s nominees join a growing legacy that includes past honourees such as Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Wangari Maathai, Uhuru Kenyatta, and Martin Kamotho, famously known as “Githeri Man”, who became a symbol of peace during the 2017 general elections.
Genge legends take centre stage
A major highlight of the 2025 list is the recognition of pioneers in Kenya’s urban music scene artists who have shaped youth identity and redefined contemporary Kenyan sound.
Honoured for their impact on music include Jua Cali (Paul Nunda) – Celebrated for trailblazing the Genge genre and creating music that resonated with youth.
The late E-Sir (Issah Mmari) will be remembered for his unique blend of Swahili, Sheng, and English that transformed local hip-hop before his untimely death in 2003.
Tedd Josiah is set to be celebrated for producing and nurturing some of Kenya’s most iconic artists, laying the foundation for the modern Kenyan music industry.
In addition, Clement “Clemmo” Rapudo is honoured for revolutionising urban music through Calif Records, pushing Genge music to the mainstream.
“Jua Cali popularised a genre that spoke to the youth in their own voice,” stated the National Heroes Council.
Tribute to Literary Giant: Prof. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o
The late Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, one of Africa’s most revered literary figures, is also among the proposed honourees.
His works including A Grain of Wheat, Devil on the Cross, and Petals of Blood – not only challenged colonial narratives but also championed the use of African languages in literature.
Ngugi’s legacy includes promoting indigenous languages such as Gikuyu in literature, reinforcing Kenyan and African cultural identity and gaining international acclaim and influencing generations of writers and thinkers.
“Ngũgĩ’s work gave African languages their rightful place in literature.”
Recognising talent across the arts
Beyond mainstream music and literature, several other creatives and educators in the arts have been nominated for their lasting contributions.
Honourees in arts and culture: Faith Nziva Kithele – Popular Kamba gospel singer with a strong regional following, Fundi Konde – One of Kenya’s earliest recording artists, whose music helped shape East African sound in the 1950s, Bosco Mulwa – Veteran theatre artist and mentor in Kenya’s creative industry and Prof. John Mugubi – Academic and thought leader in theatre, film, and creative writing.
These individuals have played a key role in building Kenya’s cultural foundation through music, education, and creative expression.
Beyond the Arts: Heroes from All Walks of Life
The Kenya Heroes Act, 2014 empowers the Council to identify and honour individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nation. The 2025 list includes people from all corners of society.
The categories include, Environmental conservation, Peace-making and conflict resolution, National cohesion and integration, Promotion of cultural values, Human rights advocacy, Spiritual leadership and Indigenous knowledge and innovation.
This wide-ranging recognition shows that heroism is not limited to public figures; it extends to grassroots leaders, environmentalists, faith leaders, and everyday citizens whose actions uplift others.
What’s Next?
The list of 180 nominees will now undergo review and vetting by relevant committees before formal recognition is granted.
Final honours will be confirmed during Mashujaa Day 2025 celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, where living heroes will be awarded, and deceased nominees honoured posthumously.
Written by Erastus Omondi, TV47
