Kenya Celebrates 61st Jamhuri Day

President Ruto leads Jamhuri Day celebrations, marking Kenya’s republic status and honoring the military

Jamhuri Day, also known as Independence Day, is one of Kenya’s most significant national holidays. Celebrated annually on December 12, it marks the day in 1964 when Kenya officially became a republic within the Commonwealth. The day also commemorates Kenya’s independence from Great Britain, which was achieved on December 12, 1963. “Jamhuri” is the Swahili word for Republic. The holiday is marked by a range of events, including feasts, parades, and political speeches that honor the nation’s cultural heritage.

History of Jamhuri Day

European settlers first arrived in Kenya through the Germans. In 1890, Kenya came under the control of the Imperial British East Africa Company, eventually becoming a British colony in 1920. Kenya’s political landscape began to shift in 1957 with the first direct elections, led by Jomo Kenyatta and the Kenya African National Union (KANU), which formed the first government.

Despite Kenya being a British colony from the late 19th century, the colonial administration consistently denied African involvement in governance. It wasn’t until 1944 that an African representative was included in the legislative body. These tensions, particularly over land and cultural issues, fueled the movement against colonial rule, culminating in the Mau Mau uprisings of the late 1950s. These uprisings forced the British to make significant political and economic concessions, culminating in increased African participation in government during the early 1960s.

On December 12, 1963, Kenya achieved independence, and a year later, the country became a republic with Jomo Kenyatta as its first president. Jamhuri Day remains a significant day for Kenyans to reflect on their long struggle for freedom.

61st Jamhuri Day Celebrations

On Thursday, President William Ruto presided over the consecration and presentation ceremony for the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in Wajir. The ceremony marked the official establishment of the Wajir Airbase, with the airbase receiving presidential and regimental colours. The airbase will now operate fully, with its own budget.

The ceremony at Uhuru Gardens in Lang’ata, Nairobi, was part of the 61st Jamhuri Day celebrations, where the President inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by the KDF services, including the Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force, and Kenya Navy, all accompanied by the KDF Band. The event symbolized the honor bestowed upon the base and celebrated its role in the nation’s defense forces.

In military tradition, colors represent the honor and spirit of a regiment. The “Trooping of Colour” ceremony allows units to proudly showcase their colors, which are considered highly treasured possessions. Their loss could lead to disbandment, emphasizing the significance of the ceremony in recognizing exemplary service.