Kenya marked Mashujaa Day 2025 at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, a celebration that not only honored the nation’s heroes and heroines but also recognized distinguished individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country’s growth and culture.
This year’s event carried a solemn tone as the nation continued to mourn the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose life and legacy were central to the celebrations. However, amid the remembrance, the ceremony also shone a light on Kenyans whose work has inspired change across various fields.
Among the recipients of the Head of State’s Commendation (HSC) were notable figures from the media, literature, and music industries, including Citizen TV’s Mwanahamisi Hamadi, music producer Clement “Clemo” Rapudo, legendary rapper Jua Cali, the late Professor Ngugi wa Thiong’o, the late D.O. Misiani, and Fundi Konde.
Mwanahamisi Hamadi
Mwanahamisi Hamadi was honored for her outstanding contribution to journalism and women’s empowerment. Through her long-running program Mwanamke Bomba, she has highlighted inspiring stories of women across Kenya who have defied odds in entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation. Her commitment to storytelling and mentorship has positioned her as one of the most respected female voices in the Kenyan media industry.
Clement Rapudo “Clemo”
Clement Rapudo, popularly known as Clemo, received recognition for his immense impact on Kenya’s music industry. As the co-founder of Calif Records, Clemo played a central role in shaping the nation’s contemporary music scene, nurturing talents like Jua Cali, Nameless, Pilipili, and Mejja. His production work helped popularize the Genya sound, and his efforts to create platforms like Kenyansound VAs have helped Kenyan music gain international reach.
Paul Julius Nunda “Jua Cali”
Veteran rapper Jua Cali was honored for his pioneering role in Kenyan hip-hop and urban music. As one of the founders of Calif Records, his hits such as Nipe Asali and Kamata Dame defined Kenya’s urban soundscape. Recognized in 2007 among the 100 most influential Kenyans, Jua Cali’s contributions have inspired a new generation of artists while elevating Kenyan culture on the global stage.
Ngugi wa Thiong’o
The late Professor Ngugi wa Thiong’o was posthumously recognized for his groundbreaking work in literature and his unwavering commitment to cultural identity. His novels, essays, and plays — written in both English and Gikuyu — have influenced readers globally and helped shape Kenya’s intellectual and political thought for over five decades.
Daniel Owino Misiani
Also honored posthumously was Daniel Owino Misiani, the legendary founder of Benga music. Through his band Shirati Jazz, Misiani fused traditional rhythms with modern sounds, creating an iconic East African music style. His politically conscious lyrics and unique artistry established him as one of Kenya’s most significant cultural figures.
Fundi Konde
Kenya’s first popular recording artist and East Africa’s first electric guitarist, Fundi Konde, was celebrated for his pioneering role in shaping the region’s music industry. His timeless hits such as Mama Soweira and Majengo Sienadi Tena remain classics that continue to inspire generations.
The Mashujaa Day 2025 celebrations thus served as both a tribute to Kenya’s historical heroes and a recognition of those wh
