Kenya has conferred its highest civilian honour, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), on former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in recognition of his exceptional global leadership, commitment to climate action, and lifelong service to humanity.

The honour was bestowed during a state ceremony at State House, Nairobi, attended by President William Ruto, senior government officials, diplomats, and international dignitaries.

Ban Ki-moon, who served as the eighth UN Secretary-General from 2007 to 2016, was hailed for elevating climate change to the forefront of the global development agenda and championing the rights of vulnerable populations across the world.

“This recognition is a testament to your global leadership, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to a just, peaceful, and sustainable world,” said President Ruto in his official address.

Ruto praised Ki-moon’s leadership at the 2007 UN Climate Change Summit and his efforts in mobilising international cooperation on climate diplomacy. He also acknowledged his instrumental role in strengthening the UN’s capacity to respond to global crises, from pandemics and food insecurity to the global financial meltdown, while driving progress on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), especially in Africa.

The President further commended Ban Ki-moon’s contributions to gender equality and human rights, citing his role in the establishment of UN Women and numerous initiatives to combat violence against women.

In his acceptance speech, Ban expressed deep gratitude for the recognition.

“I feel such a strong kinship with Kenya and the people of Kenya. This country has played a very special role in my life,” he said, describing the honour as “truly humbling.”

The award coincided with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) dual headquarters in Nairobi, an institution Ki-moon co-founded to advance climate resilience in vulnerable countries.

President Ruto emphasised the importance of hosting the GCA’s African headquarters in Nairobi, calling it a powerful symbol of the continent’s central role in shaping global climate solutions.

“We are proud to host the GCA’s Africa headquarters in Nairobi, reaffirming our commitment to climate resilience and adaptive strategies that secure our future,” he said.

Echoing those sentiments, Ban Ki-moon highlighted the significance of Nairobi’s role, noting the new GCA headquarters is the first of its kind to be co-hosted between the Global North (Rotterdam) and the Global South (Nairobi).