King Charles III, Blinken's messages as Kenya marks 60th Jamhuri

By Peter Ochieng

Kenyans are today joining hands to mark the 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations, the second under President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza administration.

In marking this day when Kenya become a Republic months after gaining independence from British colonisers, United Kingdom's King Charles III and United States of America (USA) Secretary of State Antony Blinken shared messages of support for Kenya on the 60th Jamhuri Day.

King Charles who made his maiden visit to Kenya as King in November, said he is hopeful that the partnership between the two countries will continue to be fostered, going foward for prosperity.

He thanked Kenyans for welcoming him and Queen Camilla with open arms, during their visit.

"The visit demonstrated the vital importance of the UK-Kenya partnership and our ambitions to strengthen it yet further in the months and years to come," said the King in a statement.

Separately, Antony Blinken in a statement commended Kenya for the continued partnership with the United States.

"We look to forward to continuing to deepen our close economic partnership for the benefit of Kenyans and Americans alike."

"The people of Kenya can continue to count on the United States as a dedicated friend as we address our shared challenges," added Blinken.

President William Ruto is leading national celebrations at the Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi. Governors and County Commissioners are leading celebrations in counties.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in his address urged Kenyans to forge a united front on this 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations.

"We must re-dedicate ourselves to national unity. Every Kenyan deserves to be heard. National unity means opportunities," he said.

The first term county boss said devolution is one of the best things to ever happen in this country, in the 60 years of nationhood.