President William Ruto on Tuesday presented Kenya’s most prestigious state award, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), to former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. The honour was given in recognition of Ban’s outstanding leadership and global service throughout his diplomatic career.
The Order of the Golden Heart (CGH) is the highest civilian award in Kenya and is normally reserved for Heads of State, distinguished international diplomats, and individuals who have made exceptional contributions either to the nation or to humanity as a whole.
The award represents Kenya’s deepest gratitude for significant and positive influence both locally and around the world.
The award ceremony was held at State House in Nairobi, where President Ruto applauded Ban Ki-moon’s remarkable achievements during his time as UN Secretary-General from 2007 to 2016. During his two terms, Ban was a global voice for peace, climate action, and sustainable development. He played a key role in setting global agendas such as the Paris Climate Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Before leading the United Nations, Ban had a distinguished career in the South Korean government, where he served in top-level positions including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief of National Security, and National Security Adviser to the President. These roles prepared him for the global leadership position he later held at the UN.
Speaking during the ceremony, President Ruto said the Kenyan government had decided to honour Ban for his continued efforts to make the world a better place, especially through his support for gender equality, climate resilience, and the fight against gender-based violence. He described Ban’s dedication to humanity as truly admirable and an inspiration to African nations and the wider global community.
“Your legacy in addressing climate change continues to inspire us as we face the realities of a warming planet,” Ruto stated. “Your commitment to peace, justice, and equality embodies the vision we have for Kenya and for Africa.”
President Ruto also highlighted Ban Ki-moon’s role during difficult times such as the global financial crisis, when he helped mobilise vital resources for struggling regions, including many parts of Africa. He acknowledged Ban’s role in tackling food insecurity and working towards fairer development for all.
In his acceptance speech, Ban Ki-moon expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and said he felt a special connection with Kenya. He described Nairobi as his second home, given his frequent visits and long-standing ties with the country.
“I am sincerely grateful to the people of Kenya and to President Ruto for this great honour,” Ban said. “It reflects our mutual commitment to creating a world that is more fair, more peaceful, and more sustainable.”
Ban also praised Kenya’s growing leadership in climate diplomacy, noting that the country has been playing an increasingly important role in global discussions on the environment and sustainable development. He urged world leaders to continue collaborating to tackle global challenges together.
The ceremony was attended by General Charles Kahariri, Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces, who is the highest-ranking military officer in the country. His presence underscored the national importance of the award. In Kenya, it is customary for such high honours to be witnessed by both civilian and military leadership to show that the recognition has full state backing and respect from all arms of government.
This latest award places Ban Ki-moon among a select group of global figures who have received Kenya’s highest civilian decoration, further strengthening ties between Kenya and international partners committed to peace, justice, and sustainable progress.
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