President William Ruto has conferred Former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon with the Chief of the Golden Heart (C.G.H) award for his outstanding global leadership.
The C.G.H. is the most prestigious award in Kenya and is given to sitting heads of state or exceptional global leaders.
Speaking during the event on Tuesday, July 8 at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto congratulated the former UN Secretary-General, saying that the recognition is a testament to his global leadership and commitment to a sustainable world.
“On behalf of the people and government of Kenya, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you upon your receiving of our nation’s highest honor, the Chief of the order of the Golden Heart. This recognition is a testament to your global leadership, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to a just, peaceful, and sustainable world,” said Ruto.
The Head of State also praised Ki-moon's role in advancing climate change during his tenure as the UN Secretary-General.
Read More
“Your visionary leadership placed climate change at the forefront of the global agenda beginning with the 2007 climate change summit and through sustained diplomatic efforts that mobilized unprecedented international attention. Your legacy in climate change continues to inspire us as we confront the harsh realities of a changing climate year in Africa,” Ruto added.
Ki-moon on his part thanked President Ruto for conferring him with the prestigious award.
The former UN Secretary-General noted that Kenya has held great significance for him both professionally and personally, adding that he visited the country more than any other in Africa during his tenure.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this honor, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart. It is truly a humbling moment for me to accept this award, Mr. President. 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.
“During my two terms as the 8th Secretary General of the United Nations I visited Kenya more than any other African country,” said Ki-moon.
Ki-moon is the latest leader to be feted with the award, following African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina, who received the honor on March 17.
