Russia has shared a letter sent to the late first president of Kenya Jomo Kenyatta, as Kenya marked its historic attainment of independence on December 12, 1963.
The telegram, addressed to Kenyatta while he was prime minister, was sent from the then Soviet Union leader, Nikita Khrushchev.
He commended the milestone achievement and offered to provide diplomatic support. In the message, Khrushchev hailed Kenya’s independence as an outstanding event in the historic process of the liberation of the African continent.
“Mr. Prime Minister, allow me to congratulate you on the auspicious occasion in the history of your country, the proclamation of the independence of Kenya,
“And on behalf of the Government and people of the Soviet Union and on my own behalf to convey to you personally, to the Government and people of Kenya the best wishes for success in the strengthening of political and economic independence of Kenya,” the letter read in part.
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Other Details of the Letter from Russia
The letter also emphasized the Soviet Union’s longstanding solidarity with Kenya, particularly in its heroic struggle for national freedom and independence.
For the USSR, Kenya’s journey symbolized not just a national triumph but a crucial step in the broader fight against colonial domination across Africa.
Khrushchev also reiterated the Soviet Union’s recognition of Kenya as a sovereign state, expressing readiness to establish diplomatic relations and exchange missions at the ambassadorial level.
“The proclamation of the independence of Kenya is another outstanding event in the historic process of the liberation of the whole African continent from the last vestiges of colonial domination.
“The Soviet Government solemnly declares its recognition of Kenya as an independent and sovereign State,” added the letter.
Further, the Soviet leader expressed optimism for a future built on “friendship and comprehensive cooperation” between the USSR and Kenya, anchored in mutual respect and shared aspirations.
Kenya’s independence, achieved after years of resistance and negotiation, marked the end of British colonial rule and signaled the dawn of self-determination for the nation.
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2024 Jamhuri Day
Kenya’s 61st Jamhuri Day celebrations will take place at Nairobi’s Uhuru Gardens, in an event presided over by President William Ruto. The gates opened at 6 am when attendees began to arrive at the venue ahead of the celebrations.
All guests are expected to be seated by 8 am and the ceremony is expected to officially begin at 9:00 am.
The ceremony commemorates Kenya’s transition to a republic 61 years ago.
Security at the venue has been significantly heightened, with stringent screening measures in place for all attendees.
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