King Charles III acknowledges Kenyans suffered during fight for freedom

By Peter Ochieng

United Kingdom's King Charles III acknowledged the fact that thousands of Kenyans suffered during the fight for independence in the 19th century.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi on Tuesday evenning during a banquet organised in his honour and Queen Camilla, the King said there is no excuse for atrocities committed by the British colonisers, before Kenya attained independence in 1963.

"We must also acknowledge the most painful time of our long relationship and history," said the King who is on a four-day official visit to Kenya.

Several groups had called on the King to apologise over atrocities committed to Kenyans during Britain's colonial rule, but the the public apology was not forth coming on his first public address since landing in the country on Monday night.

He instead stated that he is on a mission to seek for better understanding of the painful past, adding that he will be meeting communities affected by the dark past.

Charles III commended Kenya for her efforts in mitigating adverse effects of climate change, giving president William Ruto 'a pat on the back' for the 15 billion tree initiative.

The initiative entails planting of 15 billion trees across the country in the next 10 years.

President Ruto thanked the King for acknowledging the painful aspects of Kenya, UK shared history.

"We also note with appreciation your expression of willingness to acknowledge the painful aspects of our shared history, your exemplary courage and readiness to shed light on uncomfortable truths that reside in the darker regions of our shared experience are also very commendable," he said.

He said he hopes the Majesties' expectations will be exceeded during their time here.

"Its our hope that through our world renown hospitality and the Kenyan people's spirit of enterprise and innovation, as well as the scenic beauty and tourist charm, our country will live up to its reputation as Magical Kenya and exceed your expectations."

King Charles III and Queen Camilla were coronated in May, 2023 on the backdrop of Queen Elizabeth II's death in September, 2023.

Kenya is the first country out of Europe they are visiting since their coronation.