NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 6 – Kenyan health advocate Stephen Ogweno has been named among the 20 regional finalists in the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work.
Ogweno is the only Kenyan on the shortlist, which was selected from 977 applicants from the 56 Commonwealth member states.
The finalists were chosen through a two-stage evaluation process conducted by 57 adjudicators from across the Commonwealth.
Winners will be announced on Wednesday, March 11, at Marlborough House in London.
Each finalist will receive a £1,000 (Sh172,672) grant, a trophy and a certificate. Five regional winners will receive an additional £2,000 (Sh345,345), while one overall winner will be crowned Commonwealth Young Person of the Year and receive a total of £5,000 (Sh863,362).
“The competition saw a sharp rise in applications from just over 800 in 2024, making this year’s shortlist one of the most competitive yet,” Commonwealth Secretary General Shirley Botchwey said.
The Commonwealth Youth Awards recognise young people aged between 15 and 29 who are leading sustainable and impactful development projects across the 56 Commonwealth countries.
The awards highlight initiatives that advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate action, peacebuilding and improved health systems.
Ogweno is known for his work in advancing solutions for non-communicable diseases and strengthening health systems, with his recognition reflecting Kenya’s growing role in youth-led development and global health initiatives.
