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Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy was among the recipients of state awards on Jamhuri Day with the government honouring him for his work with the national team.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has been feted for his contribution to the growth of Kenyan football.
McCarthy, who has been in charge of the Kenyan national team since March 2025, was among the recipients of Head of State’s Commendations during the Jamhuri Day celebrations on Friday.
The South African coach was honoured with a Head of State’s Commendation – Civilian Division (H.S.C.) in recognition of his transformative work with Harambee Stars.
Why Was Benni McCarthy Honoured?
This is largely down to Kenya’s run to the quarter-final of the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN 2024) after topping what was considered the ‘Group of Death.’
Kenya, who were pooled with two-time winners of the competition Morocco, former champions DR Congo, Angola and Morocco, finished top of their group to make it to the quarter-final with an unbeaten run.
McCarthy’s men started with a 1-0 win over DR Congo, drew 1-1 with Angola before 1-0 victories against Morocco and Zambia respectively, but fell to Madagascar on post-match penalties in the quarter-finals after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Head of State's Commendation Explained
The former AmaZulu and Cape Town City coach has overseen a change in approach and instilled discipline and professionalism in the national team which is giving Kenyans hope that he can have a great impact at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Head of State's Commendation (HSC), which has both a military and a civilian division, is awarded for commendable service to the country.
It is a significant honour that recognises individuals from all walks of life, including community organisers, entrepreneurs, and public servants who have made a notable impact.