Prof David Sperling (E.B.S)	Dr James McFie (M.B.S)

Prof David Sperling and Dr James McFie were awarded the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (E.B.S) and the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S) respectively by President Kibaki on 12th December 2007. The awards were announced in a special issue of 'The Kenya Gazette' dated 11th December 2007.

"In recognition of outstanding or distinguished services rendered to the nation in various capacities, I Mwai Kibaki, President and Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kenya confer awards and honours to the following persons," the gazette reads. It then lists 204 people bestowed various honours.

Those in the same category as Prof Sperling include renowned writer Prof Ngugi wa Thiongo and the Vice Chancellors of Nairobi, Maseno, Moi and Egerton universities. Prof Sperling was the first Principal of Strathmore College. He is a Professor at University of Nairobi and Special Advisor to the Vice Chancellor at Strathmore University.

Dr James McFie is the Academic and Research Director, Faculty of Commerce. He was for many years the Director, School of Accountancy. The award crowned a year which saw him appointed to various high profile appointments.

In June 2007, he was appointed a non-executive director of The Standard Group, the publishers of 'The Standard' newspaper and owners of KTN TV station. He now heads the board's audit committee. And last September, he was appointed Chairman of Sasini Group.