Privileges Faith Kipyegon will enjoy after receiving Kenya's top civilian award

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ATHLETICS Privileges Faith Kipyegon will enjoy after receiving Kenya's top civilian award

Festus Chuma 07:00 - 13.12.2023

Double Olympic champion and world record holder Faith Kipyegon received Kenya's top civilian award on Tuesday, entitling her to various honors and benefits.

Double world record holder Faith Kipyegon was honored with the prestigious Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (E.G.H) award during the Jamhuri Day celebrations in Nairobi, Kenya.

This recognition comes as a testament to her extraordinary achievements in athletics, including breaking world records and securing two gold medals at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Hungary.

But what exactly does this top civilian award entail for the remarkable athlete?

The Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart is one of Kenya's highest civilian honors, and it comes with a range of privileges and entitlements.

According to the National Heroes Act, which was passed by Parliament in 2014, recipients of this esteemed award, such as Kipyegon, can expect to enjoy several benefits:

First and foremost, recipients are invited to national and community functions as state guests. This means that Faith Kipyegon will be a prominent figure at various official events, representing the nation and serving as an inspiration to others.

Another privilege that comes with the award is the organization of cultural festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and sports events in their honor. Kipyegon's achievements will be celebrated and showcased in these events, further cementing her status as a national hero.

Additionally, the award allows for the naming of towns, institutions, parks, roads, streets, estates, stamps, and notable landmarks after the recipient. This means that in the future, you may come across places and objects that bear Faith Kipyegon's name, a lasting tribute to her remarkable contributions to Kenya and the world of athletics.

Furthermore, recipients are entitled to the award of medals, insignia, commendations, certificates, and other commemorative items as determined by the Heroes Council.

The privilege list continues with the issuance of postage stamps, scarves, mementos, utensils, apparel, and artifacts, all of which may be determined by the Council.

In recognition of their significant roles in Kenya's history or society, recipients are entitled to the publication of books that depict their contributions. These books become part of the educational curriculum, ensuring that their legacy is passed on to future generations.

Financial assistance from the National Heroes Fund is another notable benefit. If economic circumstances warrant, recipients like Faith Kipyegon can receive support to ensure their well-being.

The government goes even further by providing national heroes with the highest attainable standard of healthcare services, including reproductive healthcare.

Accessible and adequate housing, reasonable sanitation standards, and quality food are also part of the package.

Clean and safe water in sufficient quantities, social security, and free education for their dependents up to tertiary level are additional privileges extended to awardees

Recipients can also enjoy free transport to public functions within the country to which they are invited, eliminating any logistical concerns. Furthermore, their dependents with relevant qualifications may be offered employment opportunities, contributing to their economic well-being.

It is worth noting that the process of awarding such honors involves nominations from various sources, including district committees, government ministries, religious organizations, non-governmental organizations, individuals, and more.

The National Honours Act 2013 outlines the criteria for receiving national honors, emphasizing exemplary contributions to various fields or bringing honor, glory, or pride to the Republic of Kenya.

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