By Rodgers Wagura
Othaya Stadium was a sea of humanity, emotion and pride, as family, friends, and thousands of residents gathered to celebrate the triumphant homecoming of Dr. Antony Gitonga popularly known as Antogito after receiving the globally prestigious Silver World Award in the United States.
The award, one of the highest international recognitions for service and leadership, has only been conferred on four Kenyans since independence: Presidents Jomo Kenyatta (1973), Daniel arap Moi (1981), Hon. Victor Radido (2025), and now, Dr. Gitonga.
Past global recipients include Pope John Paul II, King George VI, and Nelson Mandela, placing Gitonga among historic luminaries.
“This medal may have been handed to me in the United States,” Gitonga told the crowd, “but its story begins here in the hills, the homes, and the hands of Othaya.”
Amid cheers and chants of “Antogito! Antogito!”, the newly crowned international awardee took the crowd on a deeply personal journey.
He recalled 24th November 2010, when, as a young Scout, he received Kenya’s highest scouting honour the Chief Scout Award from none other than President Mwai Kibaki, also a son of Othaya.
“President Kibaki looked at me and said, ‘Go out there and create a better world.’ That moment became my mission. And today, I return—not just honoured, but commissioned to serve,” he said.
Gitonga used the ceremony not only to give thanks but also to unveil a powerful political vision, signalling his readiness to step into leadership—rooted in service, not status.
“Today is not just a homecoming, it’s a home calling,” he declared. “I am ready to be sent, to represent you, to serve you,” said Antogito who has declared his interest to be the next Othaya MP after the 2027 General Elections.
From his early education at Kagonye Boys to his academic pursuits in Political Science, Communication, and Public Policy, Dr. Gitonga’s journey has been steeped in purpose. His work as International Commissioner for Scouting and founder of a community-based foundation has focused on youth empowerment, education, and modern farming.
“Youth must pursue what they love. Someone out there is watching and willing to support,” he urged. “Through my foundation, we will invest in education, skills, and agriculture—because that is how we lift communities.”
Many at the event described Gitonga’s recognition as a reflection of Othaya’s quiet strength and global relevance.
“This award is not a trophy it’s a torch,” Gitonga affirmed. “It belongs to our teachers, farmers, mothers, and youth. It is proof of what we can achieve when we work together.”
As the ceremony drew to a close, Gitonga left the crowd with a heartfelt message: “The highest honour is not being recognised by the world, but being remembered by your people. Remember Antogito as the one honoured by the world but who came back to serve.”
Othaya stadium may have hosted a celebration, but the mood was more than festive it was a collective awakening. The world has honoured one of their own, and now, the people of Othaya are being asked to send him forth not just as their son, but as their servant leader.
The event was preceeded by a procession that took place in the entire constituency.
Mt Kenya Times