Kenya has accorded 14 individuals national heroes status due to their contribution in entrepreneurship and industry.
They include HASS CEO Mohamud Mohamed Salat and many others.
The 14 individuals were recognized on Monday for their contributions in innovations and entrepreneurship in driving Kenya’s economic transformation.
The honourees represent diverse sectors, from agribusiness and finance to renewable energy, logistics, and ethical business, demonstrating Kenya’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovation-driven growth.
In the list, Judy Mwende Mutunga of Makueni County, recognised for founding Ustawi Foods Company.
Her enterprise develops nutritious, fortified food products using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, addressing malnutrition and Vitamin A deficiency in rural communities.
Also from Makueni, David Wambua Joel Masika, OGW, was honoured as an industrial leader and agribusiness innovator.
His work in infrastructure, such as Masinga and Kiambere dams and livestock irrigation systems, revived the Makueni Ginneries Limited, turning it into a profitable, community-driven enterprise.
F.A. James Wangunyu of Kiambu County received this recognition for transforming Kenya’s capital markets.
As founder of Standard Investment Bank, he has led transactions exceeding Sh250 billion, launched the Mansa-X Fund managing over Sh70 billion, and pioneered Islamic investment banking, advancing financial inclusion and market growth.
Luke Mwiti Kinoti of Meru County was celebrated for his role in co-founding Fusion Capital Group, one of Africa’s first private equity firms, which mobilised over Sh200 billion in foreign investments between 2006 and 2017.
His initiatives supported more than 350 companies, creating thousands of jobs across the region.
Victor B. Otieno Maura of Siaya County was recognised for establishing a palm oil processing plant that spurred local job creation and inter-county trade.
His innovation in agro-processing has improved livelihoods while promoting sustainable rural development.
Fatuma Abubakar Abdalla Elmaawy from Mombasa County was feted for championing ethical business and community empowerment.
As a master trainer, she has mentored startups, SMEs, and marginalised groups, including teen mothers, helping them gain self-reliance and business integrity.
In Machakos County, Julius Festus Mutinda Munene was recognised for inventing a durable and affordable composite dam liner made from recycled cement bags.
His innovation helps small-scale farmers conserve water, reduce plastic waste, and create green jobs.
Charles Maina Thuo of Kajiado County was honoured for his groundbreaking logistics platform, Apexloads, which digitises freight transport and formalises the trucking sector through East Africa’s first digital credential verification system.
Eng. Francis Ngunjiri of Nyeri County was celebrated for his contribution to renewable energy development through the Gikira Small Hydro Power Plant, designed to support industrialisation and clean energy access.
Bertrand Lubanga Ngaywa of Nairobi County was feted for promoting sustainable construction and clean energy in East Africa.
His expertise in project management and renewable solutions has empowered SMEs and strengthened cross-sector partnerships.
Edwin Abonyo Jacob of Kisumu County completed the list of honourees. He established a coffee farm and pulping station that created employment and boosted local economies, reflecting the power of agribusiness to transform communities.
Salat was recognised for his leadership in expanding HASS energy company into ten African countries, creating thousands of jobs and investing in clean energy, including electric vehicle charging stations.
He is among the 180 Kenyan heroes, initially, had no idea that he was meant to be honored during Mashujaa Celebration this year.
Speaking on Radio Generation in September, "I was surprised by this nomination, by the way. So I don't know who did that. I still don't understand. I don't think I'm a hero. I still feel like I'm in the process of achieving something," he said.
Salat's philosophy of industrial leadership goes beyond profit margins, as he outlines that this is all about giving back to the society.
Together, the 14 heroes epitomise Kenya’s enterprising identity, where innovation, sustainability, and social impact intersect.
Through their efforts, they have turned challenges into opportunities, driving the nation toward inclusive prosperity.
Their recognition during Mashujaa Day 2025 reinforces Kenya’s belief that economic independence and national growth are built on the courage, ingenuity, and determination of its people.
