Kenya has posthumously honoured police officer Samuel Kitwai for his bravery and sacrifice during a peacekeeping mission in Haiti, recognising his service at a State House ceremony on Friday, December 12, 2025, following Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium.

The award, announced during the conferment of State Honours and Awards, places Kitwai among Kenyan heroes who paid the ultimate price while serving the nation beyond its borders. His recognition comes as the country reflected on sacrifice, patriotism and service while marking 62 years of independence.

Kaitwai was deployed to Haiti as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission, where Kenyan officers have been working alongside international partners to restore order and protect civilians in gang-controlled areas. His role as a gunner placed him at the frontline of dangerous patrols in volatile neighbourhoods.

According to details read out during the ceremony, the fatal incident occurred earlier this year during a routine patrol that turned deadly. The account highlighted the risks Kenyan officers continue to face while operating in hostile environments far from home.

State House explained that the officer was on active duty at the time of the incident, serving under the multinational mission tasked with stabilising parts of Haiti affected by gang violence.

“Posthumous award to Kitwai Samuel. The officer, until his demise, was deployed as a gunner under the multinational security Support Mission in Haiti, on 23 February 2025, at around 3:40 pm, while on patrol duties, they were ambushed by a suspected gang,” Mike Gitonga read out.

Despite the sudden and violent attack, Kitwai and his fellow officers responded with courage and discipline, engaging the attackers in a bid to protect lives.

“The team engaged the gangs, inflicting injuries to them and repulsing them, thereby saving the lives of those in an unprecedented incident,” a commentator said

Seriously injured

During the exchange, Kitwai was critically wounded. He was rushed for medical treatment, but his injuries proved fatal.

“In the process, the officer was fatally shot, he was rushed to the hospital and on arrival, it was established that the officer had succumbed to injuries,” a commentator said.

In recognising his actions, the government cited his bravery and selflessness, noting that his sacrifice helped save others during the attack.

“For his bravery and sacrifice, he is posthumously awarded the Silver Star of Kenya (SS),” Mike Gitonga added.

The Silver Star of Kenya is a prestigious honour awarded to individuals who demonstrate exceptional courage and service. For Kaitwai’s family, colleagues and the wider police service, the award serves as a solemn acknowledgement that his sacrifice did not go unnoticed.