The Order of the Golden Heart is the highest national award in Kenya, awarded by the President of Kenya to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary qualities such as heroism, patriotism, or leadership. Established in 1966, it recognizes both Kenyan citizens and foreign dignitaries who have made significant contributions to the country.
Classes of the Order:
The Order is divided into three distinct classes:
- Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.)
- Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.)
- Moran of the Order of the Golden Heart (M.G.H.)
Recipients:
- Chief of the Order is predominantly awarded to the sitting President of Kenya but has also been given to other prominent figures from abroad who have made notable contributions. Notable recipients of this prestigious award include:
- Rt. Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, Second Prime Minister of Kenya
- President Yoweri Museveni, President of Uganda
- Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia
- Aga Khan IV
- Aga Khan V
- Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank
- Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud, Saudi businessman
- Mike Moore, Former Prime Minister of New Zealand
- Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, 53rd Da’i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra
Precedence:
The Order of the Golden Heart holds the highest precedence in Kenya, with no higher awards in the country. The next lower award in the Kenyan honors system is the Order of the Burning Spear.
| Awarded by the President | |
|---|---|
| Type | State |
| Established | 1966; 60 years ago |
| Country | Kenya |
| Awarded for | displays of exemplary qualities, achievements of heroism, patriotism or leadership |
| Classes | ChiefElderMoran |
| Post-nominals | CGH EGH MGH |
| Precedence | |
| Next (higher) | None (highest) |
| Next (lower) | Order of the Burning Spear |
