Akinwumi Adesina (left) receiving the award from President William Ruto (right)
Source: Africa Publicity
In a prestigious ceremony held at Kenya’s State House in Nairobi, President William Ruto conferred the country’s highest national award, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), upon Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). This esteemed honor recognizes Adesina’s exceptional contributions to Kenya and the African continent, solidifying his legacy as a champion of economic development in Africa.
As the ninth recipient of the CGH and the first Nigerian to receive this distinction, Adesina’s impactful leadership has left an indelible mark on Africa’s economic landscape. With his tenure as AfDB President set to conclude in September 2025, this award serves as a testament to his tireless efforts to drive economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve living standards across the continent.
Under Adesina’s leadership, the AfDB has financed numerous projects in Kenya, including the Last-Mile Connectivity electricity project, which has increased the population’s access to the national electricity grid from 41% in 2014 to 76% in 2024. The Bank has also supported various road and transport projects, such as the Thika-Nairobi road expansion and the Kapchorwa-Suam-Kitale road project, which have significantly improved regional connectivity and trade.
As Adesina accepted the award, he expressed his gratitude to President Ruto and the people of Kenya, emphasizing the deep connection he feels with the country. “My heart has always been in Kenya,” he said. “I am therefore immensely honored that President Ruto, you are conferring on me Kenya’s highest and most distinguished honor”.
This prestigious award not only recognizes Adesina’s outstanding contributions but also underscores the importance of leadership and collaboration in driving economic development and prosperity across Africa.
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