Utumishi Girls heroine Cecilia Wanjiku honoured posthumously as two Nakuru residents recognised with heroes’ award
A Photo of Cecilia Wanjiku who was awarded as a National hero for her bravery. She died in the May 2026,Utumishi Girls Academy fire tragedy while saving other students
Cecilia Wanjiku, the Utumishi Girls Academy student who courageously returned to a burning dormitory in an attempt to rescue her fellow students during a fire tragedy that claimed 16 lives, has been honoured posthumously by President William Ruto during this year’s 63 Mashujaa day held in Eldoret.
Wanjiku was among individuals recognised for their contributions to society under the Philanthropy category of the National Heroes Awards.
Her award celebrated the extraordinary courage and selflessness she demonstrated during the tragedy.
The recognition comes alongside honours for other Nakuru residents, including philanthropist Shamsherali Gulam Hussein Gilani, Dr Rani Shyamsunder Ramchandani and Mishaal Shaileshkumar Sheth, who were also recognised under the Philanthropy category.
According to the National Heroes Council citation, Wanjiku demonstrated profound concern for the safety of others when she chose not to flee but instead attempted to rescue fellow students trapped in the burning dormitory.
“Her courage, sacrifice and unwavering concern for others stand as an enduring example of humanity, leadership and service. Though her life was cut short, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to act with compassion and courage in times of crisis,” read the citation.
Wanjiku hailed from Kambi Somali in Gilgil and had demonstrated academic excellence before joining Utumishi Girls Academy.
She scored an impressive 399 marks in her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examinations at Gilgil Highway Primary School before joining Karima Girls, from where she later transferred to Utumishi Girls.
According to Utumishi Girls principal Joycelene Muraguri, Wanjiku was among the institution’s best-performing students, particularly in the sciences.
Her recognition places a national spotlight on a young student whose courage and willingness to put the lives of others before her own left an enduring legacy, even as the school community and the country continue to remember the 16 students who died in the fire.
Shamsherali was also honoured in the same category for his decades of service to vulnerable communities in Nakuru, particularly through initiatives supporting education, child welfare, healthcare and humanitarian assistance.
The Street Children’s Assistance Network (SCAN) chairperson has dedicated much of his life to improving the welfare of disadvantaged children and families through programmes aimed at tackling poverty and creating opportunities for a better future.
Shamsherali Gulam Hussein Gilani holds his medal awarded to him as a National hero by president William Ruto during the 63 edition of Mashujaa Celebrations held in Eldoret
In an interview with Mtaa Wangu following the award, Shamsherali expressed appreciation to the government for recognising the organisation’s work, saying the honour acknowledged years of efforts to support vulnerable members of society.
“I Wish to dedicate this prestigious honor to my wife Avni for working with me tirelessly for 25 years, the SCAN trustees and staff for their dedication and to the friends and donors without whose support and recognition this would never have been possible,” he noted.
Other notable Nakuru residents recognised during the award include Dr Rani Shyamsunder Ramchandani and Mishaal Shaileshkumar Sheth who were appreciated under the Philanthropy category.
Mr Sheth termed the award as a recognition and appreciation of the journey of making a difference in the community which he dedicated to his family fellow volunteers, colleagues, well-wishers, and all those who have walked with him.
Hyrax General Director Mishaal Sheth who received heroes award during Mashujaa day
"This honour belongs to all who believe that compassion must be translated into action, that dignity is a right for everyone, and that hope can be restored through selfless service," he said
The recognition of the Nakuru awardees highlights the contribution of individuals and community-led initiatives working to improve livelihoods, support vulnerable populations and inspire service to society.