Kenyans in their thousands from different parts of the country on Thursday December 12, 2024, thronged Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi to witness Kenya’s 61st Jamhuri Day celebrations.
The gates opened at 6 a.m., when attendees began to arrive steadily at the venue ahead of the celebrations.
Kenyans, mainly from the sprawling Kibera slums started streaming to the venue from as early as 7am.
Preparations for the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nairobi’s Uhuru Gardens were spearheaded by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
According to the program of the event, all guests were expected to be seated by 8am before the festivities officially start.
President Ruto arrived at the venue at around 10: 30 am and was received by Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri.
Following his arrival, he inspected the guard of honour and presided over the trooping of colours ceremony.
Deputy president Kithure Kindiki, First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto, Chief cabinet secretary Musalia Mudavadi and other CSs arrived shortly before President Ruto.
However, second Lady Dr. Joyce Kithure Kindiki was notably absent from Deputy President Kindiki’s first national function since assuming office.
Other officials present include Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja, Senate majority leader Senator Aron Cheruiyot and his National Assembly counterpart Kimani Ichungwah and members of the diplomatic corps.
Gambian President Adama Barrow was among the notable guests at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi to celebrate the Kenya’s Jamhuri Day fete.
Barrow was welcomed to the event by Kenya’s second in command Kithure Kindiki.
The low, mighty and middle class mingled freely to listen to President Ruto as he spelt out his agenda for the country.
The ceremony is historical, as it commemorates Kenya’s transition to a republic 61 years ago, following independence in 1963.
Security has been intensified at the venue with thorough screening of individuals entering the venue.
Additional security personnel had also been deployed throughout Nairobi to ensure the safety and smooth flow of the event.
Church leaders among them the newly ordained Military Ordinariate were not left behind despite the growing tension between the state and the church as they prayed for Kenya and its leaders.
Bishop Wallace Ng’ang’a blessed the Kenyan flag at the Uhuru Garden venue, incensed it and offered special blessings for the country.
Other faith Bishops and Kadhis also prayed for President Ruto and the nation.
