National icons honoured during 60th anniversary of Kenya's diplomatic journey

Kenya's Foreign Affairs Ministry on Monday celebrated an eclectic mix of national icons during the unveiling of its revised foreign policy framework, recognising their significant roles in enhancing Kenya's global standing.

From retired military veterans to world-class athletes, these individuals were hailed for their contributions to peacebuilding, diplomacy, and sports.

Among the honorees were Lieutenant General (Rtd) Daniel Opande, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Lazarus Sumbeiywo, marathon legends Eliud Kipchoge and Faith Kipyegon, and posthumously, Ambassador Bethuel Kiplagat.

Peacemakers

Lt. General Lazarus Sumbeiywo, a former Kenya Army Commander, was lauded for his instrumental role in mediating the Sudan peace talks, which culminated in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in 2005.

His work paved the way for South Sudan's independence in 2011.

Recently recalled from retirement by President William Ruto, Sumbeiywo is currently mediating talks in South Sudan to integrate armed groups into the 2018 peace accord—a mission still underway.

Lt. General Daniel Opande, another towering figure in peacekeeping, was celebrated for his role as a UN force commander in Sierra Leone (2000) and Liberia (2003).

PCS Musalia Mudavadi honors retired Lt. General Daniel Opande, a former Kenya Military Vice chief of staff for his exemplary service and peace exploit efforts on December 2, in Nairobi, Kenya. (Photo: MFA)

Under his leadership, thousands of combatants were disarmed, and the largest UN peacekeeping mission was established in Liberia in 2003.

Opande's contributions were hailed as a cornerstone of Kenya's peace diplomacy legacy.

Posthumously honoured, Ambassador Bethuel Kiplagat was recognised as a distinguished peace ambassador.

During the official launch of Kenya’s 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Journey, I highlighted our growing influence on the world stage. From hosting UNEP and UNON to regional offices of major financial institutions, Kenya continues to champion environmental diplomacy, regional… pic.twitter.com/XGDJ4yvY9s

— Musalia W Mudavadi (@MusaliaMudavadi) December 2, 2024

A former Permanent Secretary in the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Kiplagat championed peace efforts in Somalia and led the defunct Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission.

His work as a High Commissioner to the UK and ambassador to France further solidified his diplomatic legacy.

Diplomatic excellence

Former Principal Secretary in Kenya's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Boaz Mbaya, has been honoured for his distinguished contributions to diplomacy.

The author of Kenya's foreign policy and diplomacy book, Mbaya served as PS in 2005 under President Mwai Kibaki.

Over his career, he represented Kenya as an envoy in Tanzania, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and France.

Lazarus Amayo, President Ruto's special envoy on African Union reforms, was recognized for his outstanding diplomatic service.

Amayo, who previously served as Kenya's ambassador to the US and Permanent Representative to the UN in New York, received accolades for his exemplary contributions to Kenya's foreign relations.

Members of the diplomatic community during the opening ceremony on the 60th anniversary of Kenya's Diplomatic Journey celebrations in Nairobi on December 2, 2024. (Photo: MFA)

Francis Muthaura, former Head of Civil Service and Secretary to the Cabinet under President Kibaki, as well as the caretaker secretary of the revived East African Community, was honoured with a lifetime achievement award for his significant role in shaping Kenya's diplomatic legacy.

Sports diplomacy

In the arena of sports diplomacy, marathon great Eliud Kipchoge and double Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon were feted for their unmatched contributions to Kenya's international image.

Their achievements in athletics have placed Kenya on the world map, fostering national pride and global admiration.

Corporate excellence

Kenya Airways and Equity Bank were acknowledged for their corporate diplomacy.

A view of the opening ceremony on the 60th anniversary of Kenya's Diplomatic Journey celebrations in Nairobi on December 2, 2024. (Photo: MFA)

Kenya Airways dubbed the Pride of Africa, was celebrated for its role in connecting Kenya to the world.

Equity Bank, which has established a strong presence in the Great Lakes Region, was lauded for its role in economic diplomacy.

The Kenya Rugby Sevens team, renowned for their prowess on the international stage, was also recognized for promoting Kenya's image through sports diplomacy.