On December 12, 2024, during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, President William Ruto honored Kenyan actress Sarah Hassan and Luo musician Prince Indah with the prestigious Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) award. The OGW is a high national honor given to individuals who have made significant contributions to their industries and society.
The event, which took place at Uhuru Gardens, was followed by an awards ceremony at State House. It saw a gathering of politicians, celebrities, and distinguished guests, all of whom celebrated the remarkable achievements of individuals like Sarah Hassan and Prince Indah. Both were recognized for their exceptional contributions to Kenya’s entertainment sector, with their careers spanning years of impactful work.
Sarah Hassan’s Accomplishments
Sarah Hassan’s career began over a decade ago, and she has since established herself as one of Kenya’s most influential actresses, producers, and television hosts. The announcement of her award highlighted her exceptional role in advancing Kenya’s film and entertainment industry globally. Known for her role in Tahidi High and various other productions, she has become an icon in the Kenyan entertainment scene.
During the award ceremony, the master of ceremonies praised Hassan, stating, “She is an acclaimed and award-winning Kenyan actress, producer, and television host who has significantly contributed to the global recognition of Kenya’s film and entertainment industry.” As President Ruto presented her with the OGW medal, Hassan expressed her gratitude, shaking the president’s hand in appreciation for the honor.
Prince Indah’s Reaction to the OGW Award
Prince Indah, the celebrated Ohangla musician, also received the OGW award in recognition of his contributions to the music industry. Known for his distinct sound and powerful lyrics, Indah has won the hearts of many with his energetic performances and deeply rooted Luo cultural expressions in his music.
On receiving the award, Indah took to Facebook to express his heartfelt thanks. He dedicated the honor to his fans, saying, “This honour is not just mine — it belongs to all of you, my amazing fans, who have supported me every step of the way. Your unwavering belief in me has made all of this possible. Thank you for being a part of this journey. This is just the beginning.”
Public Celebrations and Social Media Reactions
The announcement of Sarah Hassan and Prince Indah receiving the OGW sparked a wave of celebrations on social media, with Kenyans praising the two celebrities for their hard work and dedication. Social media users expressed admiration for both stars, with many commenting on Hassan’s journey since her Tahidi High days and Indah’s rise in the music industry.
Some of the notable comments included:
- @Irene Barno: “Very composed. I have watched her since she was a young actress at Tahidi High.”
- @Kevo: “Congratulations to her, she is eye-catching on the screen.”
- @Slim Nyar Awendo: “Congratulations Janabi. Keep ascending to the higher level.”
- @Vicky MJ: “Congratulations Janabi, Indah.”
Other Celebrities Honored
Aside from Sarah Hassan and Prince Indah, other notable figures, including actress Kate Actress and musician Brenda Wairimu, also received the OGW award during the celebrations. Celebrities such as Terence Creative, Jacky Vike (Awinja), Captain Otoyo, Mtumishi, and Mchungaji were also in attendance to witness the prestigious moment.
As Kenya continues to recognize and celebrate excellence in various sectors, the awarding of the OGW medal to Sarah Hassan and Prince Indah underscores the importance of the arts in shaping the nation’s identity and global influence.
The recognition of Sarah Hassan and Prince Indah with the Order of Grand Warrior is a testament to their hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to their craft. This honor not only highlights their individual achievements but also serves to inspire future generations to make meaningful contributions to Kenya’s cultural landscape.
