This archive report was first published on 25 July 2019.
On July 25, 2019, President Uhuru Kenyatta honored Patrick Mwalua Kilonzo with the Head of State Commendation award during Jamhuri Day celebrations.
Mr. Kilonzo, a farmer who has been battling kidney failure for seven years, was recognized for his selfless efforts in delivering water to wild animals at the Tsavo national park.
He took to social media to share the good news after being handed the award by Tourism Minister Najib Balala.
"This is a day I will never forget," Mr. Kilonzo posted. "Minister Najib Balala, the minister of Tourism and Wildlife, honoring me with the Head of State Commendation award from the President of the Republic of Kenya for my efforts of helping animals during drought seasons in Tsavo Park."
Mr. Kilonzo's efforts in delivering water to wild animals at Tsavo gained popularity in 2017 after his story was highlighted by Nairobi News.
