US Secretary of State John Kerry has congratulated Kenyans on the occasion of the 52nd Jamhuri Day.
In a statement released through the official State Department website, the top US diplomat recalled his visit to Kenya last May, saying he found a population rich in culture, strengthened by diversity, dedicated to democratic principles, and eager to expand prosperity and promote stability and peace for its own families and for all of East Africa.
“On behalf of President Obama and the citizens of the United States, I congratulate the people of Kenya as you mark the 52nd anniversary of your nation’s independence on December 12,” he said in the statement.
Jamhuri Day, he said, is an opportunity to showcase this commitment and to celebrate Kenya’s progress over the past half-century.
“The people of the United States value their friendship with Kenya, and look forward to continuing to work closely with you in months and years to come. Once again, I offer my congratulations and best wishes to all Kenyans on this special day,” closed Mr Kerry who was in Kenya as a forerunner to the historical visit by U.S President Barrack Obama whose father is Kenyan.
During his visit, President Obama prided in being the first ever Kenyan American U.S President and lauded the warm relationship the two countries enjoyed together.
“A young, ambitious Kenyan today should not have to do what my grandfather did, and serve a foreign master. You don’t need to do what my father did, and leave your home in order to get a good education and access to opportunity. Because of Kenya’s progress, because of your potential, you can build your future right here, right now,” said President Kenyatta during his speech to 5 million Kenyans at the Safaricom indoor arena and beamed live on national and international TV in July.
