Kenyan humanitarian and peace builder Shee Kupi from Lamu County has been named the AidEx Humanitarian Hero of the Year 2025, one of the world’s most distinguished recognitions in humanitarian service.
The award was presented during the AidEx Humanitarian and Development Summit held at Palexpo in Geneva, Switzerland, where global leaders, aid workers, and development professionals gathered to celebrate exceptional contributions to humanity.
The honour recognises individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary courage, innovation, and leadership in improving lives under some of the world’s most challenging conditions.
Kupi was celebrated for his lifelong dedication to saving lives and fostering peace among fragile coastal and border communities in Kenya and Somalia.
His work has centred on disaster risk reduction, environmental protection, and youth empowerment, directly supporting thousands of people affected by floods, cyclones, and conflict-driven displacement across the Horn of Africa.
Over the past decade, Kupi has led a range of community resilience programs, introducing early warning systems, maritime rescue training, and peacebuilding initiatives designed to help vulnerable coastal populations prepare for and recover from disasters.
His efforts have strengthened community cohesion, improved safety at sea, and empowered young people to become agents of peace and resilience.
AidEx organisers lauded Kupi’s achievements, describing him as a model of integrity and courage.
“Kupi has shown extraordinary leadership in protecting lives and restoring peace across Kenya’s coastal counties and the Kenya-Somalia border,” said the AidEx organising committee.
“His humility, bravery, and commitment to peace embody the true spirit of the AidEx Humanitarian Award.”
In his acceptance speech, Kupi expressed gratitude and humility, dedicating the award to frontline humanitarians who continue to serve in difficult environments.
“This award belongs to the brave men and women who have chosen service over fear and compassion over comfort,” he said.
“It inspires me to do even more, not only in Kenya but wherever humanity calls.”
Kupi’s latest global honour adds to a growing list of accolades recognising his humanitarian and peacebuilding efforts.
He is a recipient of the Sasakawa UNDRR Award 2025 for disaster risk reduction, was named a National Hero of Kenya in 2023, and earned the IMRF Individual Contribution Award 2024 for excellence in maritime rescue operations.