An eventful week in London signalled by the return to the symbolic Lancaster House for the #Kenyaat60 Jamhuri Commemoration event hosted by Amb. Manoah Esipisu, High Commissioner of the Republic of Kenya to the Court of St. James that was attended by Kenyans and friends of Kenya and graced by H.E Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, EGH, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Kenya and the Rt. Hon. Theo Clarke MP, UK Prime Minister Special Envoy for Trade to Kenya.
In his statement, the Prime Cabinet Secretary highlighted the significance of the venue as the place where Kenya’s constitution was negotiated. Also recognized the vibrant spirit of the Diaspora community and their positive contribution both in the United Kingdom and Kenya.
‘‘As we celebrate Jamhuri Day, we renew our commitment to the core principles that define us – democracy, equality, and justice as a Commonwealth Member state. The hoisting of our flag symbolizes our collective determination to build a Kenya where every citizen has the opportunity to prosper, regardless of background or circumstance, whether residing in Kenya or the Diaspora, here in the United Kingdom. We encourage Kenyans to invest in these spaces as much as they invest back home.’’ Prime Cabinet Secretary.
On his part, the High Commissioner commended the Diaspora community for their positive contributions in the United Kingdom and Kenya.
‘Lastly, as we reflect on the 60 years of Kenya’s independence, I cannot end my remarks without a special mention of Kenyans who embody and continue to emulate our freedom fighters. Their selfless service to humanity across the UK including during the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the fore the adage of being our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Huge applause to the frontline health workers, doctors, nurses, caregivers, lecturers, teachers, drivers, retail and supermarket workers, and those in fintech among others who continue to play individual roles to ensure that the UK society continues as normally as possible during this unprecedented time. They include Professor Veronica Moraa Pickering, appointed His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire. First woman and first person of colour in the role. Professor Washington Yotto Ochieng at Imperial College who has launched the first scholarships in engineering targeting sub-Saharan Africa and finally, my friend Frederick Akandi who is channeling donations of ambulances and fire engines to Africa to help in forgotten crises there.’
The Rt. Hon Theo Clarke, the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy for Kenya, spoke on the UK's government, recalling the extraordinary bond of friendship between the two countries. Ms. Clarke expressed anticipation for another year of significant advancements, pointing out that the upcoming UK-Africa summit in the Spring is expected to be the next platform for significant announcements on major developments.
Featuring in the celebrations, was the final exhibition of the Contemporary Art in London themed ‘Kenya Artist: Visions & Possibilities’, hosted by the Kenya High Commission in collaboration with Kenya Cultural Centre in London. The exhibition aimed at supporting professional careers of emerging Kenyan artists and engage communities in the arts and creativity industry. The showcased artists, all under the age of thirty-five (35), presented distinctive perspectives on a swiftly evolving era hailing from diverse backgrounds and employing innovative styles, techniques and materials compelling dialogue about the emerging visions and possibilities within the nation.
A unique opportunity to highlight the endeavors of companies based in Kenya and the UK, specifically those with a focus on Africa and Kenya. We express our sincere gratitude to the corporations and agencies that endorsed and contributed to the success of the #Kenyaat60 event.
Photos courtesy ofDaccography https://daccography.pixieset.com/jamhuri2023/
