Through a special gazette notice issued on Monday, June 1, the president stated that the 68 had helped the country steer through the coronavirus pandemic.
The journalists included; Robin Njogu, Tabitha Rotich, Chemutai Goin, Vincent Ateya, Enoch Sikolia, Jeff Kuria, Asha Mwilu (who left the station on Friday) and Nelson Aruya.
Asha Mwilu with a colleague on October 20, 2016.
Other than the journalists, the Citizen TV Managing Director, Wachria Waruru, also got the special award.
The president also awarded KBC journalist Purity Museo and KTN’s Dr Mercy Korir.
Dr Patrick Amoth, the acting Health Director-General and one who was recently elected to the World Health Organisation (WHO) executive board, was also part of the president’s lists.
Other notable individuals included; Jane Karuku (chairperson of the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund Board), James Mwangi (a member of the COVID – 19 Emergency Fund Board), Major General Ayub Matiiri (head of Operation Kinga Corona), Dr. Thuranira Kaugiria (Nairobi KMPDU branch secretary) and Phillip Ogolla (Humanitarian).
In his speech, the president lauded the individuals for exhibiting exemplary service, sacrifice, patriotism, heroism and a high sense of civic duty in helping steer Kenya through the pandemic.
The head of state further commended health care workers for all the response they had given in response to the pandemic.
He also recognised the researchers and innovators, including the team of University Students that designed and built a customized Ventilators.
Acting Ministry of Health Director-General Patrick Amoth taking notes at a past meeting.
