Former Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) Ban Ki-moon has been bestowed with Kenya’s highest honor, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.). The prestigious award was presented at a function held at State House Nairobi, celebrating a public career spanning more than five decades and a commitment to global well-being that continues to inspire.
In his congratulatory message on Tuesday, President William Ruto delivered a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging Ban Ki-moon's unwavering dedication to global peace, sustainable development, and the inherent dignity of all humanity. President Ruto lauded Ban's tenure as the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, describing him as a quintessential "bridge-builder and a champion of the world’s most vulnerable." This commendation underscores Ban's diplomatic prowess and his empathetic approach to complex global challenges.
A significant portion of President Ruto's praise focused on Ban Ki-moon's visionary leadership in elevating climate change to the forefront of the global agenda. The President specifically recalled Ban’s pivotal role in convening the landmark 2007 Climate Change Summit, an event that ignited crucial diplomatic efforts and mobilized unprecedented international action against the escalating climate crisis. President Ruto emphasized that it was these tireless efforts that "laid the groundwork for ongoing international cooperation and continued to resonate in Africa’s current climate response strategies." For a continent disproportionately affected by climate change, Ban's foresight remains a powerful source of inspiration as nations confront increasingly harsh realities.
"Kenya is proud to honour you for your lifetime of service to humanity. May this award serve as our profound appreciation of your vision, dedication, and the lasting impact of your work," President Ruto affirmed, encapsulating the nation's profound gratitude.
President Ruto also highlighted Ban's transformative impact during his tenure at the UN, where he notably strengthened the institution’s capacity to respond to a spectrum of pressing crises. From confronting global challenges like food and energy insecurity to navigating devastating global pandemics, Ban's leadership ensured the UN remained a responsive and effective force. His successful appeals for increased resources during the global financial crisis were instrumental in shielding millions from hardship, demonstrating his proactive approach to economic stability. Furthermore, his steadfast commitment to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) delivered tangible progress, particularly evident in Africa, where millions benefited from improved health, education, and poverty reduction initiatives.
President Ruto further commended Ban Ki-moon’s lifelong advocacy for gender equality and human rights. He specifically recognized the establishment of UN Women and other ground-breaking initiatives aimed at ending violence against women as powerful legacies of Ban’s profound conviction that "true development must be inclusive and just." This commitment to social justice and human dignity resonated deeply with Kenya's own aspirations for a more equitable society.
