Manu Chandaria receives National Heroes Award for philanthropy, healthcare support

The brief ceremony was attended by the Principal Secretary for Culture, Ummi Bashir.

Chandaria, 97, was recognised by President William Ruto during the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui County under the philanthropy category.

Koskei said Chandaria’s life and work reflected the spirit of heroism that drew the attention of the National Heroes Council and the President, citing contributions that have expanded access to medical care, including support for rural clinics.

He said Chandaria’s healthcare initiatives include the Chandaria Accident and Emergency Centres in Nairobi and Mombasa, and specialised units at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, including oncology and what he described as the first paediatric bone marrow transplant centre in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Chandaria received the award alongside his wife Aruna Chandaria and staff members, and said the recognition meant a lot to him.

“It’s a great pleasure to be a hero in this country. This is great,” he said.

Koskei also said Chandaria’s philanthropy has supported institutions including USIU, Kenyatta University and the University of Nairobi.