Jua Cali, E-Sir and Ngugi wa Thiong’o top list of nominees for national heroes award
Celebrated writer, the late Ngugi wa Thiong’o, is among Kenyan legends proposed to be feted during the upcoming Mashujaa Day celebrations as Kenya’s heroes.
In a report by the National Heroes Council( NHC) on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, among the heroes are musicians E-Sir and Jua Cali, as well as music producers Ted Josiah and Clement Sienji.
You might also like
The National Heroes Council stated that the late Prof. Ngugi is being honoured for being Kenya’s foremost author and one of Africa’s most influential writers.
“His career spanning more than half a century has elevated Kenyan literature to a global stage and his works have been translated into numerous languages and studied internationally, bringing scholarly and international recognition to Kenyan literary culture,” NHC said.
Watch: Ngũgĩ Wa Thiong’o: A literary giant’s enduring legacy
“Through his persistent advocacy for indigenous language and cultural sovereignty, he expanded Kenya’s democratic discourse and earned global admiration. His achievements are both transformative for literature, society and cultural identity,” NHC said.
Likewise, Paul Julius Ndunda, popularly known as Jua Cali, is honoured as a pioneering Kenyan rapper and co-founder of Calif Records. His breakout hits like Ruka, Nipe Asali, Kamata Dame and Kwaheri (featuring Sainapei Tande) dominated airwaves, earning him national fame and multiple brand endorsements.
“In 2007, he was named one of the 100 most influential Kenyans by The Standard newspaper and remains a creative icon whose music continues to shape Kenya’s urban identity,” NHC said.
NHC noted that Jua Cali has elevated Kenya’s music industry, inspired generations of artists, and contributed to the global recognition of Kenyan urban culture, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to influence the nation’s creative landscape.
On the other hand, NHC said, Issah, popularly known as E-Sir, is being recognised as a trailblazing Kenyan rapper who revolutionised urban music with his lyrical mastery, blending Swahili, Sheng, and English to create relatable, high-energy tracks.
His record hits like Boomba Train, Leo ni Leo and Moss Moss captured the spirit of Nairobi’s youth and proved that Kenyan music could rival international pop.
Also watch: Tribute to young star E-Sir who left a big impact
Notably, E-Sir won multiple awards, including Best Male Artist, Best Hip-Hop Artist and Song of the Year at the Kisima Awards 2003.
His legacy lives on through his music and influence. ESir’s artistry not only redefined Kenya’s music industry but also inspired a generation of young people to believe in their creative potential.
His enduring influence continues to shape Kenya’s urban soundscape, cementing his place as a national hero whose music united, energised, and uplifted the nation.
Worth noting, Nairobi Governor Jonson Sakaja, who spoke during 2024 Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, had pointed out that the late E-Sir, arguably one of the region’s greatest and most influential rappers of all time, will have a road named after him in the city’s South C neighbourhood.
Music producers to be feted
In addition, NCH listed Ted Josiah, noting that he is honoured for being a pioneering music producer, whose work laid the foundation for the Kenyan modern urban sound. He mentored and produced legendary artists such as Kalamashaka, Necessary Noize, Suzzana Owiyo, and Poxi Presha who helped shape Kenya’s musical identity,” NHC noted.
“He is regarded as an icon in the music industry for his role in elevating Kenyan music to global standards and nurturing a generation of influential artists,” NHC said.
Likewise, Clement, popularly known as Clemo, is being feted for promoting Kenyan music as a producer through Calif Records, which pioneered the Genge genre. Clement was the creative force behind hits by artists like Jua Cali, Nonini, Pilipili, Jimwat, and Mejja, helping define the sound of Nairobi’s Eastlands and giving voice to a generation.
He later founded Ngomma VAS, a digital platform that distributes and promotes Kenyan music globally, making him a pioneer in both analog and digital music revolution.
Through his vision and innovation, Clement has not only shaped Kenya’s contemporary music identity but also created pathways for artists to thrive locally and globally.
His work has preserved, amplified and exported Kenyan creativity, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire new generations and enable artists earn livelihood.
