Jamhuri Day in 2024

When is Jamhuri Day?

Jamhuri Day is celebrated on December 12th. If December 12th falls on a Sunday, the following Monday will be a holiday. It is Kenya's National Day.

Jamhuri is Swahili for Republic and as such Jamhuri Day is also known as Republic Day or Independence Day.

This is Kenya's National Day and as such marks two key events in the history of the country. It celebrates Kenya becoming a republic on December 12th 1964 and also marks Kenya's independence from the United Kingdom a year earlier on December 12th 1963.

History of Jamhuri Day

The first colonists from Europe to have a presence in Kenya were German, but in 1890, the region came under the control of the Imperial British East Africa Company, and Kenya was part of the British East Africa protectorate until it became a British crown colony in 1920.

Disputes over land were common, leading to the Mau Mau rebellion in 1952, which effectively put Kenya into a state of emergency for the next seven years.

The first direct elections took place in 1957, with the Kenya African National Union led by Jomo Kenyatta forming the first government.

Kenya gained its independence on December 12th 1963 and was admitted into the Commonwealth as a republic exactly one year later, with Jomo Kenyatta as president.

Did you know?

Nairobi National Park is the only national park in the world to be in a capital city - on its savannah plains it is possible to view rhinos, lions, giraffes and other safari species with the city's skyline as a backdrop.

How is Jamhuri Day celebrated?

Jamhuri Day is one of Kenya's most important holidays due to its historical significance. The day is celebrated with many events such as feasts, political speeches and parades, all of which celebrate the country's cultural heritage. The President addresses the nation and awards several decorations, orders and medals to Kenyans to recognise their distinguished services to the country. The eligible recipients are nominated and advised to the President by the National Honours and Awards Committee.

Due to its position in the calendar, Jamhuri Day is also seen as the start of the Christmas period, and the start of the Christmas shopping period.