Jamhuri


Jamhuri (Kenya Independence Day)

December 12The biggest of the national holidays in Kenya, Jamhuri is observed to commemorate the full independence of Kenya from the British in 1963. A year later, the country became a republic with Jomo Kenyatta (c. 1894-1978) the first president. The day is celebrated nationwide but with special events in Nairobi—speeches by the president and other officials, parades, fireworks, and ngomas (dances) performed in public plazas.
CONTACTS:
Embassy of the Republic of Kenya
2249 R St. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008
202-387-6101; fax: 202-462-3829
www.kenyaembassy.com
SOURCES:
AnnivHol-2000, p. 206
NatlHolWrld-1968, p. 226