This archive report was first published on 12 June 2021.
On 11th June, Japanese Ambassador to Kenya, Horie Ryoichi, conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star on Douglas Wakiihuri, one of Japan's highest national honours, established in 1875 by Emperor Meiji.
The ceremony, held at the Official Residence of the Ambassador, was attended by Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Culture and Heritage Ambassador Amina Mohamed, General Jackson Tuwei, President of Athletics Kenya, and Mr. Francis Mutuku, Secretary-General of the National Olympic Committee Kenya, among others.
According to a statement by the Japanese embassy, the decoration was conferred by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan on 29th April, 2021, and witnessed by the Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. SUGA Yoshihide, to acknowledge Mr. Wakiihuri's contribution to the development of the bilateral relationship between Japan and Kenya in the sporting field.
Mr. Wakiihuri, a renowned athlete, paved the way for foreign runners in Japan, being the first Kenyan to do so, and his legacy continues to inspire Japanese youngsters.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Horie praised Mr. Wakiihuri's unique talent for singing, which exemplifies his distinguished role of bridging the two countries.
Mr. Wakiihuri expressed his gratitude to the people of Japan, saying, 'I was passed a tasuki (sash), a sign of responsibility from Japanese people to continue running in the race of life.'
He also extended his sincere gratitude to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, the Government of Japan, Ambassador Horie, and all those who have supported him to date.
