President William Ruto has conferred the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH) Kenya’s highest national honour on former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in recognition of his exemplary global leadership and lifelong service to humanity.
The award was presented during a ceremony held at State House, Nairobi, where Ruto praised Ban for his dedication to building a peaceful, just, and sustainable world.
“Kenya is proud to honour you for your lifetime of service to humanity,” Ruto said. “As the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, you distinguished yourself as a bridge-builder and a champion of the world’s most vulnerable.”
President Ruto highlighted Ban Ki-moon’s crucial role in elevating climate change to the top of the global agenda, beginning with the 2007 Climate Change Summit. He lauded Ban’s diplomatic efforts that led to unprecedented international cooperation on environmental sustainability.
The president also acknowledged Ban’s efforts to strengthen the UN’s capacity to respond to global crises including food insecurity, energy shortages, and health pandemics. Ruto credited Ban with amplifying the voices of marginalised communities and mobilising critical resources during the global financial crisis, which helped to alleviate suffering for millions around the world.
Ruto noted Ban’s instrumental role in the successful implementation of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which saw significant progress, especially across Africa. He also recognised Ban’s support in creating UN Women and his advocacy for ending violence against women, describing these as proof of his commitment to inclusive development.
In his acceptance remarks, Ban Ki-moon expressed deep gratitude for the honour, calling it a humbling moment. He shared a personal connection to Kenya, noting that his daughter met her husband in the country and his grandson spent part of his childhood there.
“I feel such a strong kinship with Kenya and the people of Kenya,” Ban said. “During my two terms as UN Secretary-General, I visited Kenya more than any other country in Africa.”
Ban Ki-moon’s recognition reinforces Kenya’s commitment to global leadership, diplomacy, and the celebration of those who dedicate their lives to the betterment of humanity.
