On December 12, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar extended his heartfelt wishes to Kenya on their Independence Day, known as Jamhuri Day.
He shared a post on social media platform X, greeting Kenya’s Foreign Minister Musalia W. Mudavadi, the Government, and the people of Kenya on this significant occasion.
To mark the occasion, Jaishankar also shared a photo from Kenya's International Yoga Day celebrations in July, symbolising the growing ties between the two nations.
The Indian Embassy in Kenya also joined in the celebrations, sending its own messages of goodwill. Meanwhile, the Kenyan High Commission in India marked the celebrations a few days earlier, on December 10.
The event, which commemorated Jamhuri Day, was attended by Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, who was the chief guest at the colourful gathering. The ceremony was also graced by various ambassadors and high commissioners, along with Kenyan nationals residing in India.
Jamhuri Day holds deep significance for Kenya as it marks the day in 1963 when the country gained independence from British colonial rule. India played a vital role in supporting Kenya during its struggles for self-rule, and the bonds between the two countries have only strengthened since then.
In his message, Jaishankar reiterated India’s long-standing partnership with Kenya, which has been built on cooperation in areas such as trade, education, and investments.
The celebrations were held at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, where the Kenyan heads of state addressed the citizens, commemorating the nation's journey to independence.
The relationship between India and Kenya has evolved into a dynamic and multi-dimensional partnership over the years. Both countries share a maritime connection, and their diplomatic ties have grown considerably in recent decades.
There have been several high-level visits between the two nations, bolstering trade and investment opportunities while strengthening people-to-people connections.
The Indian High Commission in Kenya has played an instrumental role in facilitating these engagements, including the establishment of a High Commission in Kenya following the country’s independence. India also maintains an Assistant High Commission in Mombasa, which serves to further deepen the bonds between the two nations.