Ruto honours Ban Ki‑moon with Kenya’s highest civilian award in recognition of global leadership

President William Ruto today bestowed the prestigious Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH) on former UN Secretary‑General Ban Ki‑moon during a State House ceremony in Nairobi. The highest civilian honour in Kenya, the CGH recognises exceptional contributions to both the nation and humanity.

Ban Ki‑moon served two terms at the helm of the United Nations from 2007 to 2016, where he championed global peace, sustainable development, and climate action. Under his leadership, the UN elevated climate change on the world stage and launched initiatives such as UN Women. Before his UN tenure, Ban held key positions in the South Korean government, including Foreign Minister and National Security Advisor.

During the investiture, President Ruto praised Ban’s lifelong dedication to humanitarian causes. He noted, “Your leadership and commitment to peace and justice reflect the very essence of what we strive for as a nation and continent.” Ruto also highlighted Ban’s role in tackling food insecurity and navigating the global financial crisis, citing tangible progress in Africa.

In response, Ban Ki‑moon expressed gratitude to Kenyans and President Ruto, calling Nairobi his “second home.” He remarked, “I extend my heartfelt thanks to the people of Kenya and President Ruto. This honour reaffirms our shared commitment to building a more just and sustainable world.” He also commended Kenya’s growing influence in climate diplomacy and urged continued global cooperation on sustainable development goals.

The vibrant ceremony drew attendance from top state officials including Chief of Defence Forces Charles Kahariri, underlining the award’s national significance. In this gesture, the nation emphasised its appreciation for Ban’s contributions to global welfare and regional development.

The CGH stands as Kenya’s premier civilian decoration and is traditionally reserved for heads of state, leading diplomats, and other individuals who demonstrate exceptional service. President Ruto’s decision to confer the award on an international figure highlights Kenya’s recognition of global stewardship in areas critical to Africa’s future, particularly climate resilience, gender equality, and inclusive development.

Following the ceremony, diplomatic communities and civil society organisations commended the move, viewing it as a symbolic endorsement of solid partnerships with global leaders. Analysts suggest this gesture also cements Kenya’s positioning as a key player in shaping international development narratives.

Ban Ki‑moon’s award marks a milestone in Kenya’s diplomatic history. It reaffirms the country’s commitment to aligning with global efforts toward environmental sustainability, gender rights, and peacebuilding. It also sends a strong signal of Kenya’s desire to foster alliances with international ambassadors of change.

As President Ruto called for continued mentorship and collective action, the award ceremony closed with echoes of hope and optimism. The gathering celebrated not only Ban’s individual achievements but also the shared ideals driving Kenya and the broader world toward a more equitable and sustainable future.