Hannah Wanjiru

Hannah was honoured for her outstanding contribution to Kenya’s liberation movement, demonstrating courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom. As an active participant in the struggle, she spent two years in the forest alongside fellow freedom fighters, enduring harsh living conditions, constant danger, and the threat of capture by colonial forces.

Her role extended beyond mere survival; Hannah was entrusted with the critical responsibility of guiding her comrades through treacherous terrain to safety. Using her deep knowledge of the land, she identified and led them to escape routes that allowed them to evade areas prone to sudden colonial raids. These safe passages often meant the difference between capture and continued resistance.

Hannah’s exceptional sense of direction, quick thinking, and bravery under pressure earned her the trust and respect of her fellow fighters. Her actions not only preserved the lives of many but also sustained the operational strength of the movement during critical moments.

Her legacy reflects the vital role women played in the liberation struggle, often balancing both physical endurance and strategic leadership. Hannah’s sacrifice remains a powerful reminder of the collective bravery that brought Kenya closer to independence.