The Head of State (HSc.) commendation is one of the honours the President of Kenya can bestow upon citizens who have contributed to their communities.
The late Moyiae Ole Ranka Nkaaka popularly known as Mzee Ole Kurraru was awarded the honour in 2019, as recognition of distinguished services he rendered to the nation which included donating his land for a government project.
Mzee Ole Kurarru who passed on July 30, 2020, aged 90, was described as a selfless Maa leader by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
In a tribute to the community leader conveyed by the Ministry of Environment and Foresty, the Head of State recalled Mzee Kurraru's act where he donated his land for a water project during the construction of Standard Gauge Railway tunnel in Kimuka area.
From the project, the local community was able to access clean water for their livestock and domestic use.
In a condolence message read on his behalf by Environment and Forestry, Cabinet Secretary, Keriako Tobiko, the President recognised Mzee Ole Kurraru as a great leader who was gifted with unique abilities to understand the challenges of the times and offered practical solutions to his community.
The Maa leader was also acknowledged for his quest to transform the lives of the youth and Maasai community through education where he mobilised his community to build the first primary school in Kimuku and other schools in Kibiku areas.
Uhuru added that the deceased demonstrated his commitment to the promotion of girl child education by encouraging the community to discard negative cultural practices such as early marriages and facilitated and mobilized his community to construct Kimuka Girls Secondary School.
The President urged the family and community at large to draw solace from Psalms 73:26 which says “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever”
The late Mzee Ole Kurraru was laid to rest on Friday, August 7, at his home in Kimuka village, Kajiado County.
He is survived by his three widows, 21 children, 91 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
The HSC is bestowed on two divisions; Military and Civilian. During the 56th Jamhuri Day celebrations in 2019, Over 400 individuals were honoured by President Uhuru Kenyatta with the coveted State commendation.
Among those who have been honoured witha HSc include Patrick Mwalua Kilonzo, a farmer, who was famous for delivering water to thirsty wild animals at Tsavo National Park in 2016, controversial blogger Robert Alai, embattled journalist, Jacque Maribe and Martin Kimotho alias Githeriman.
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