Published on January 17, 2025 by Kariuki Mwangi
Last Updated on 2 years by Kariuki Mwangi
A Nairobi resident Samuel Mundia, who is an advocate for the recognition of national heroes and heroines has sent to Parliament, a request for the establishment of a comprehensive framework to honor national heroes and heroines in a more meaningful and impactful manner.
In a letter addressed to the clerk of the National Assembly, Mundia notes that these remarkable individuals laid the foundation of our nation’s success, yet many of them face significant challenges in their later years, often lacking the support and recognition they rightfully deserve.
In his motion, Mundia seeks to have Parliament craft measures that go beyond medals and ceremonies, advocating for a system that ensures our heroes are treated with dignity and care during their lifetime while preserving their legacy for future generations. Let us come together as leaders to give our heroes the recognition and respect they have earned through their sacrifices.
Mundia’s proposal outlines three key areas that can be explored including the establishment of a welfare program to provide financial support, healthcare and emergency services to the heroes and heroines as well as the expansion of the annual Mashujaa day to include more heroes and heroines from different spheres.
According to Mundia in his letter to the legislature, the government should also consider the establishment of a special area to be used as a cemetery for these national figures providing a dignified final resting place for the heroes and heroines who have left an indelible mark in the nation’s history.
“We should not have to be called upon to fundraise for our heroes because they cannot afford medical bills or are living in poverty. A good example is Kenyan boxer Suleiman Bilali, a two-time Olympian and celebrated national champion who brought pride to the country but now struggles to make ends meet due to neglect and lack of support after his career. This highlights the urgent need for sustainable systems to support our heroes even after they retire,” Mundia says.
This initiative is inspired by international examples such as South Africa’s Union Buildings and India’s Raj Gat which honour their country’s national heroes with the belief that Kenya can create a sacred place where the contributions of the heroes and heroines can be remembering and celebrated.
