Eldoret’s Finest: 22 Individuals Awarded State Honours by President Ruto

On Thursday, President William Ruto officially conferred city status on Eldoret Municipality, elevating it to the prestigious rank of a city in Kenya.

During the ceremony, President Ruto declared, “I, Kipchirchir William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander in Chief of Kenya’s Defence Forces, do hereby ordain, declare, and direct that the municipality of Eldoret has been conferred with city status.”

In recognition of this significant milestone, the President also awarded State honours to 22 individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nation, particularly in service to Eldoret.

Chief of Staff Felix Koskei, while reading the honours, stated, “In honour of the immense contributions made by these visionary sons and daughters of Eldoret, I present the following persons for conferment of National Honours in recognition of their distinguished and outstanding services rendered to the nation in various capacities and responsibilities.”

Below is the full list of individuals who received State honours and their notable achievements:

Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CGH)

1. Vivian Cheruiyot
   • A renowned long-distance runner and three-time Diamond League holder, Vivian Cheruiyot has brought global recognition to Kenya through her athletic prowess.
2. Late Ezekiel Barngetuny
   • A philanthropist and founder of Barngetuny Plaza, the late Ezekiel Barngetuny was known for his contributions to community development and education.

Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EGH)

3. Late Paul Boit
   • A successful educationist who built several schools, the late Paul Boit was dedicated to advancing education in Eldoret and beyond.

Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS)

4. George Kibet
   • Recognized for his contributions to the community, George Kibet has been instrumental in various local initiatives.

Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya (OGW)

5. Dr. Lodhia Prabhudas
   • An established general medical practitioner in Eldoret, Dr. Prabhudas has provided essential healthcare services to the community.
6. Joseph Lesiew
   • The longest-serving mayor of Eldoret Municipality, Joseph Lesiew played a significant role in the town’s development.
7. George Kiprono
   • A successful large-scale farmer, George Kiprono has contributed to the agricultural growth of the region.
8. Moses Tanui
   • A renowned athlete and founder of the Eldoret City Marathon, Moses Tanui has been a key figure in promoting sports in Kenya.
9. Kamau Miyako
   • A businessperson and founder of Miyako Hotels, Kamau Miyako has made significant contributions to the hospitality industry in Eldoret.
10. Late Oloo Owino
    • The late mayor and founder of the Opera House, Oloo Owino was a prominent figure in Eldoret’s cultural development.
11. Barnabas Arab Kiprono
    • Recognized for his leadership and service, Barnabas Arab Kiprono has made notable contributions to the local community.

Head of State Commendation (HSC) – Civilian Division

1. Stephen Maraba
   • A philanthropist and founder of Valley Hotel, Stephen Maraba has played a crucial role in community development and support.
2. Late Malakwen Arap Sisiwa
   • Founder of Bismillahi Langot House, the late Malakwen Arap Sisiwa was a significant figure in the local business community.
3. Late Kimwatan Kabuliot
   • The founder of Kabuliot House, the late Kimwatan Kabuliot was a pioneer in Eldoret’s commercial sector.
4. Late Isabella Abura
   • A former councillor in Eldoret Municipality, the late Isabella Abura was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for her constituents.
5. Late Ngugi Gitonga
   • The founder of Sosiani House, the late Ngugi Gitonga was instrumental in shaping Eldoret’s urban landscape.
6. Late Edward Limo
   • A key member of a Christian Revival Movement, the late Edward Limo was known for his spiritual leadership and community service.
7. Victorina Rotich
   • A prominent large-scale farmer, Victorina Rotich has contributed to agricultural development and food security in the region.
8. Ajay Shah and the Shah Family
   • The Shah family, through their establishment of Ken-Knit Kenya Ltd., has been a driving force in the textile industry, providing employment and boosting the local economy.
9. Late Elisha Kari Businei
   • A trader and member of the Eldoret Municipality Controls Board, the late Elisha Kari Businei was a respected figure in local governance.
10. Late Paul Kamau
    • Founder of Paul’s Bakery, the late Paul Kamau was a pioneer in the baking industry, contributing to the culinary heritage of Eldoret.
11. Wycliffe Matuli Okwaro
    • The longest-serving staff member of Eldoret Municipality, with 43 years of service, Wycliffe Matuli Okwaro has been a dedicated public servant, contributing to the growth and development of the city.

These honours not only recognize the individuals’ contributions but also underscore the importance of community service, leadership, and dedication to the nation. The elevation of Eldoret to city status, coupled with the recognition of its most distinguished citizens, marks a new chapter in the region’s history, setting the stage for future growth and development.