President William Ruto has honoured former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon with Kenya’s highest national award, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), in recognition of his global leadership and lifelong commitment to peace, justice, and sustainability. The ceremony took place at State House in Nairobi, where Ruto described Ban Ki-moon as a bridge-builder and a tireless voice for the world’s most vulnerable.

“As the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, you distinguished yourself as a bridge-builder and a champion of the world’s most vulnerable,” the president said during the event.

Ruto commended Ban for bringing urgent global issues to the forefront, especially the fight against climate change. He credited him for spearheading the 2007 Climate Change Summit and for maintaining consistent diplomatic engagement that led to international cooperation on environmental action.

He also praised Ban’s efforts in strengthening the United Nations during times of global crisis, including food insecurity, energy shortages, and health pandemics. Ruto noted that Ban amplified the voices of those often left out, while playing a key role in securing resources that helped ease the burden of the 2008 global financial crisis.

“Your steadfast commitment to the Millennium Development Goals delivered tangible progress, particularly for Africa,” Ruto said.

The president highlighted Ban’s contribution to the empowerment of women through the establishment of UN Women, as well as his support for efforts to end violence against women and girls. He described these as a reflection of Ban’s strong belief in inclusive, just development.

“Kenya is proud to honour you for your lifetime of service to humanity,” Ruto said. “May this award serve as our profound appreciation of your vision, dedication, and the lasting impact of your work.”

In his acceptance remarks, Ban Ki-moon expressed deep gratitude for the honour and described the moment as humbling. He reflected on his long-standing connection with Kenya, both professionally and personally.

“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this honour. It's a truly humbling moment for me to accept this award. I feel such a strong kinship with Kenya and the people of Kenya. You have meant so much to me both in my professional and personal life,” he said.

Ban revealed that Kenya holds a special place in his heart. It is where his daughter met her husband and where his grandson spent part of his early childhood. He also noted that during his time as the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, he visited Kenya more than any other country in Africa.