It was a mix of the new and the old during national celebrations in Nairobi to mark the second Mashujaa Day since President Uhuru Kenyatta took over power.
From the speeches, the entertainment and the colour, Kenyans were treated to a menu that included references to past and present achievements and those who had made it all happen.
The day bore most of the hallmarks of past national events, only that time this time round, there were no marches-past of those who over the years have made the county proud. There were no athletes, no musicians and others who in previous years would showcase their achievements before the crowds.
The President in his speech was appreciative to those who had sacrificed for the country over the years.
“...We celebrate the multitude of unsung heroes whose everyday efforts bring progress and unity to families, communities and our nation,” the President said.
As always, Kenya Army band did justice to the day. The tunes belted out both before and after the arrival of the President brought warmth to an otherwise chilly day that had interrupted an entertainment menu that was meant to include Kenya army paratroopers and the magical Air Force manoeuvres.
When Warrant Officer II Gibson Mwandawiro announced that the paratroopers would not be making an appearance, the crowd appeared disappointed.
Despite the hiccup, the Army band kept the crowd entertained with tunes such as Sammy Wambua’s ‘Rose’.
The older generation of Kenyans were also treated to memories of the Kasanga’s 1980’s music and other zilizopendwa songs.
Light moments
The day did not lack its share of interesting moments. At the start of his speech, the President failed to recognise his Deputy William Ruto, who had spoken before him.
Former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta had to walk from the main dais towards the inner stadium gates as apparently, she could not find her car inside the stadium.
Kenya’s new Ambassador to Habitat Prof Sam Ongeri, perhaps having forgotten that he was now an ambassador, walked towards the gate reserved for other dignitaries, before being directed to the one reserved for diplomats. The crowd at Nyayo National Stadium was huge. Dedan Kimathi’s widow, Mukami Kimathi arrived at 10.30am. Many former Mau Mau fighters turned up for the fete.
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