Aasai

Former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has been conferred Kenya’s highest civilian award, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart, in recognition of his distinguished global leadership and enduring contributions to peace, human rights, and sustainable development.

The prestigious honour was announced by President William Ruto, who commended Ban Ki-moon’s tireless efforts on the global stage during his two-term tenure as the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations (2007–2016). In a statement issued from State House Nairobi, President Ruto described Ban as a “visionary leader whose legacy continues to inspire the world,” particularly in Africa where his work has had lasting influence.

President Ruto hailed Ban’s significant achievements in placing climate change at the heart of international discourse. He highlighted Ban’s leadership during the 2007 Climate Change Summit, noting that it marked a turning point in global awareness and action. “Your visionary leadership brought climate change to the forefront of the global agenda,” said Ruto. “Your efforts galvanized international action that remains critical today, especially as Africa faces the growing threats of droughts, floods, and extreme weather events.”

Ruto also acknowledged Ban’s role in transforming the United Nations to make it more effective in responding to global crises. During his time in office, Ban spearheaded institutional reforms that strengthened the UN’s ability to deal with urgent challenges such as pandemics, food insecurity, energy shortages, and economic instability. According to President Ruto, these reforms helped the global body remain relevant and responsive in the face of evolving international threats.

The President further lauded Ban Ki-moon for his instrumental role in the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which he said delivered tangible improvements in health, education, poverty reduction, and gender equality across Africa. “Many developing countries, including Kenya, made significant progress during this period thanks to your strong leadership,” Ruto noted.

A strong advocate for gender equality and the protection of human rights, Ban was also credited for establishing UN Women, the United Nations body dedicated to empowering women and girls worldwide. Ruto praised his continued efforts to address violence against women and promote inclusivity in development policies. “Your dedication to justice, equality, and dignity for all people is a hallmark of your legacy,” the President said.

The award comes at a symbolic moment, as Kenya prepares to host the groundbreaking of the Global Centre on Adaptation’s new headquarters in Nairobi, a project closely tied to Ban’s ongoing climate advocacy. President Ruto described the centre as a beacon of hope and resilience, especially for African countries confronting the realities of a warming planet. “It is a symbol of our shared commitment to build a resilient and sustainable future for generations to come,” he remarked.

In his concluding message, President Ruto expressed Kenya’s pride in honouring Ban Ki-moon, stating: “May this award serve as our deepest appreciation of your life’s work and the enduring impact you have had on the world. Kenya salutes your dedication, your service to humanity, and your pursuit of a better world for all.”

The conferment of the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart underscores Kenya’s recognition of global leadership that aligns with its own development and environmental priorities, while strengthening its voice in the international climate and human rights dialogue.