NAIROBI, Kenya – The late Ngugi wa Thiong’o, Kenya’s most celebrated author and a towering figure in African literature, is among 180 individuals nominated to be recognised as national heroes in 2025.
The National Heroes Council hailed Ngugi for his decades-long contribution to literature and culture, crediting him with bringing Kenyan writing to global prominence while championing indigenous languages and cultural sovereignty.
“His achievements are both transformative for literature, society and cultural identity,” the council said in its report.
Ngugi, who died in Buford, Georgia, United States, on May 28, 2025, at the age of 87, leaves behind a legacy of works that expanded democratic discourse and inspired generations of readers and writers.
Other nominees include Kennedy Momanyi Bosire, recognised for compiling the first Ekegusii dictionary, which has preserved the language and encouraged indigenous authorship; Henry Miyinzi Chakava, honoured for publishing African narratives and promoting language equity; and Jane Bosibori Obuchi, acknowledged for documenting and safeguarding the intangible cultural heritage of the Abagusii community.
“Through her dedication, she has safeguarded a vital part of Kenya’s cultural identity, ensured its continuity for future generations, and enriched the nation’s heritage landscape,” the council said of Obuchi’s work.
The nomination process opened in July, with individuals, organisations, and institutions invited to propose candidates for recognition during Mashujaa Day on October 20.
Nominees must demonstrate selfless contributions in one of 14 categories, including liberation struggle, arts, scholarship, human rights, statesmanship, entrepreneurship, peace-making, and environmental conservation.
They are also expected to embody values outlined in Article 10 of the Constitution, such as courage, commitment, innovativeness, and discipline.
