March 26, 2025
Renowned Kenyan industrialist and philanthropist Manu Chandaria has been awarded the prestigious National Heroes Award in recognition of his decades-long contribution to social development, healthcare, and education in Kenya.
The award was formally conferred by Felix Koskei, Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff, during a distinguished ceremony held at the Chandaria residence in Runda, Nairobi.
In his commendation remarks, Koskei praised Dr. Chandaria as a true embodiment of heroism, citing his transformative philanthropy that has touched countless lives across the country. The recognition follows his earlier honour by William Samoei Ruto during the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui County.
“Dr. Chandaria’s life and work reflect the very spirit of heroism we celebrate today,” Koskei said. “His generosity has significantly expanded access to life-saving healthcare and uplifted communities across Kenya.”
Transforming Healthcare and Education
Over the years, Dr. Chandaria has played a pivotal role in strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system. His contributions include the establishment of Chandaria Accident and Emergency Centres in Nairobi and Mombasa, as well as support for specialized units at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital—among them oncology services and Sub-Saharan Africa’s first paediatric bone marrow transplant centre.
Beyond healthcare, Dr. Chandaria has made substantial investments in education and innovation. He has supported institutions such as the United States International University-Africa and Kenyatta University, promoting entrepreneurship and nurturing talent. His support also led to the establishment of the Chandaria Centre for Performing Arts at the University of Nairobi.
For over three decades, his scholarship programmes have enabled thousands of secondary school and university students to access quality education.
Champion of Economic Growth and Social Empowerment
Dr. Chandaria’s influence extends into Kenya’s economic landscape. As founding chairman of the East African Business Council and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, he has been instrumental in shaping private sector growth and policy both nationally and regionally.
Internationally, his impact has been widely recognized. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003 by Queen Elizabeth II and, in 2022, became the first African recipient of the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy.
His philanthropic work has also focused on rehabilitation and empowerment, particularly among incarcerated women. Through the establishment of workshops in prisons such as Lang’ata, Meru, Shimo La Tewa, and Kisumu, Dr. Chandaria has provided vocational training and pathways to reintegration for hundreds of women.
Supporting Sustainability and National Goals
In alignment with the government’s ambitious environmental agenda, Dr. Chandaria’s foundation has established 18 tree nurseries across 14 counties to support the national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
Koskei noted that Dr. Chandaria’s legacy is not only defined by institutions, but by the lives transformed through his compassion and commitment to service.
“It is my profound honour to present this National Heroes Award to Dr. Manu Chandaria,” Koskei declared during the ceremony.
The recognition cements Dr. Chandaria’s place among Kenya’s most influential philanthropists, whose enduring legacy continues to inspire generations and shape the nation’s future.