Kenyan police officers who lost their lives while serving in Haiti have been posthumously awarded the Silver Star Medal of Kenya, one of the country’s highest honours for bravery and distinguished service.
The medals were presented by President William Ruto during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations, recognising the courage and sacrifice of the fallen officers.
The awards went to Constable Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai and Corporal Kennedy Mutuku Nzuve, both of whom were deployed under the Multinational Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti.
Another officer, Benedict Kabiru, was similarly recognised for his exceptional service.
Their work was part of Kenya’s contribution to global peacekeeping and security operations in a region marked by gang violence and civil unrest.
“These officers displayed exceptional courage in the line of duty, often in the most dangerous conditions,” the President said.
"Their sacrifice reminds us that the cost of peace is high, and Kenya will always remember those who serve with distinction.”
Constable Kaetuai was killed in February 2025 during a gang ambush, while Corporal Nzuve died in a road accident linked to mission operations in August.
Kabiru, however, went missing and has been presumed killed in the line of duty.
The Silver Star Medal of Kenya is awarded to individuals who display gallantry and extraordinary service, particularly under hazardous circumstances.
Beyond its symbolic value, the award also serves as a professional recognition, inspiring other officers to uphold the highest standards of courage and commitment.
For families, the medal represents a lasting acknowledgement of their loved one’s heroism and contribution to national and international security.
Kenya has long participated in international peacekeeping and security missions, and the fallen officers were part of a contingent working to stabilise volatile areas in Haiti. Their service reflected the country’s commitment to supporting global security efforts, even at great personal cost.
The posthumous awards are also part of a broader effort to memorialise the disciplined forces.
Recognition at high-profile national events like Jamhuri Day ensures that the bravery and sacrifice of officers are formally acknowledged by the state.
Families receive the medals on behalf of their loved ones, providing both national validation and moral support.
The ceremony, attended by senior government officials, military leaders, and families of the deceased, served as both a commemoration and a reminder of the risks faced by officers serving in various missions.
It reaffirmed Kenya’s policy of recognising and rewarding gallantry, ensuring that acts of bravery are publicly celebrated.
Through the award of the Silver Star Medal of Kenya, the nation honours not only the fallen officers but also the values they exemplified of courage, selflessness, and dedication to service.
