Premium
Jua Cali, Ngugi wa Thiong'o among 180 nominated for national heroes 2025
Musician Jua Cali, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and scholar Ngugi wa Thiongo were nominated as heroes.
Musician Paul Nunda alias Jua Cali, the late literary icon Prof Ngugi wa Thiong’o and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, are among individuals proposed for declaration as heroes in 2025 by the National Heroes Council.
The council, established under the Kenya Heroes Act of 2014, has identified Kenyans who fall within its mandate to be recognised as national heroes and heroines. Other notable names on the list released on Tuesday are the late rapper Issah Mmari alias E-Sir, veteran music producers Clement Rapudo alias Clemo and Ted Josiah.
The late Prof Ngugi is proposed to be honoured with a hero status, for being one of Kenya's foremost authors and one of Africa's most influential writers. The Council says his works have elevated Kenyan literature globally, advanced indigenous language and cultural sovereignty, and earned him international acclaim.
Governor Nassir has been proposed to be recognised under the statesmanship category, for what the Council describes as his transformative leadership in public service and governance.
“He has championed equitable national revenue sharing, safeguarded the integrity of devolution, and led institutional reforms that promote fiscal discipline and citizen engagement,” the Council said in a statement.
The council adds that Governor Nassir’s administration had pioneered impactful social programs, including bursary initiatives and key investments in primary healthcare.
In the arts category, several individuals have been identified with legendary names appearing on the list.
Apart from Ted Josiah, known for works such as Unbwogable, Jua Cali, producer Clemo of Calif Records, the Council has also listed John Okumu alias Wuod Fibi to be honoured for their role in promoting Kenyan music.
Ted will be honoured as a pioneering producer who shaped Kenya’s modern urban sound, mentored legendary artists, and elevated the country’s music to global standards. The late E-Sir is being recognised as a trailblazing rapper who revolutionized Kenya’s urban music with his blend of Swahili, Sheng, and English.
Read: How Ngugi wa Thiong'o avoided a ‘Mercedes’ funeral
“Hits like Boomba Train, Leo ni Leo, and Moss Moss captured the spirit of Nairobi’s youth, earning him multiple Kisima Awards in 2003. His artistry redefined the industry, inspired a generation, and cemented his legacy as a national hero whose music continues to energise and unite Kenyans,” said the council.
Others who have been proposed in the arts category include Kamba gospel musician Faith Nziva Kithele, the late Fundi Konde, Bosco Mulwa and Professor John Mugubi for his pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s arts through film, theatre, and creative writing, and for pioneering formal academic training that has nurtured generations of young creatives.
In the sports category, Harambee Starlets Coach Mildred Omari Cheche and Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations secretary general Nicholas Musonye have been listed. Mr Musonye played a key role in the successful organisation of the recent African Nations Championship (Chan) tournament in Kenya and is currently involved in steering Kenya's preparations to host the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon 2027).
Other categories where the 180 proposed heroes fall under are envirnmental conservation, national cohesion and integration, peace making, spiritual leadership, cultural values and practices, indigenous knowledge, human rights among others. The council has asked Kenyans to avail any objections and representations before September 30, 2025.
“Any objections and representations will be considered in line with the provisions of the Kenya Heroes Act of 2014” said the council.
The national heroes are usually recognised annually during Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20. This year's venue will be Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, with the celebrations focusing on the theme of "Transforming Lives Through Sustainable Energy Solutions".
