Mishaal Seth bags Philanthropist of the Year award weeks after Mashujaa Day recognition

NAKURU, Kenya, Nov 1 – Nakuru-based businessman and philanthropist Mishaal Seth has received another award, less than two weeks after President William Ruto recognised his charitable work during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations.

Seth was named Philanthropist of the Year at the Pacesetters International Awards (PIA), held at Weston Hotel in Nairobi.

He was recognised for more than a decade of community service, including organising free medical camps, specialised treatment clinics, vaccination drives and food distribution programmes for vulnerable families in Nakuru.

Working alongside his family, the Hindu Council of Nakuru and other well-wishers, Seth has supported low-income communities in Kanyon, Manyani and Kisulisuli estates through free meals and medical outreach programmes.

His community initiatives include specialised medical clinics targeting eye conditions, bone-related ailments and non-communicable diseases such as arthritis, diabetes and hypertension.

His work, which has benefited hundreds of residents in Nakuru City, has helped improve access to healthcare, restore dignity and ease the suffering of vulnerable families.

The awards ceremony, organised by Jubilant Steward of Africa (JSA), brought together leaders from government, business, academia, diplomacy and the development sector to recognise individuals and institutions making outstanding contributions to Africa’s socio-economic development.

JSA Executive Director Jared Oundo said the industry leadership recognition programme celebrates businesses and professionals across the continent for innovation, quality service, job creation and positive social impact.

He said recognising excellence was critical to strengthening African institutions and accelerating sustainable development.

“Recognising excellence encourages higher standards of performance, strengthens institutional credibility and inspires the next generation of business and public sector leaders,” he said.

Oundo said, unlike conventional awards that focus primarily on financial performance, the PIA recognises organisations and individuals based on their economic and social impact.

“PIA focuses on how institutions go out of their way to serve humanity, promote ethics and contribute to society. The winners are rigorously selected through an appraisal survey that involves a public vote, benchmarking and a panel of judges,” he said.

He added that the programme attracts organisations from across sub-Saharan Africa and beyond, with awards spanning several categories, including Corporate Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility, Professional and Education, Road Safety and Healthcare.

Other award recipients included Comfort Homes CEO Dr Hezekiah Kariuki, who received the CEO and Entrepreneur of the Year award; Kasarani Group of Schools Chief Principal Dr Steven Okuta, who was named Senior School Principal of the Year; and Gilgil MP Martha Wangari, who was recognised for her contribution to community philanthropy and grassroots social impact.

Laban Wanambisi, is a journalist, who specializes in reporting Parliamentary and Political Affairs. He likes telling stories in a way that makes a difference in people's lives and the world.