Kennedy Odede, the founder and CEO of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), has been awarded the 2025 Nelson Mandela Prize in recognition of his community-led development work in Kenya.
The award ceremony took place at the UN General Assembly Hall in New York on Friday, July 18, as part of this year's Nelson Mandela International Day.
The Nelson Mandela Prize is awarded every five years to one man and one woman whose work embodies the legacy of Nelson Mandela, including his commitment to reconciliation, social justice, and grassroots leadership.
Odede becomes the first Kenyan man to receive the award.
