Pomp and colour as Kenyans mark freedom day

Hundreds of Kenyans yesterday trooped to the Nyayo National Stadium to mark the nation’s 51st Jamhuri Day celebrations.

Patriotism was depicted at its best in various colours as many turned up adorned in national colours and armed with flags to witness an occasion that combined a mix of appreciation of culture, heritage and splendor.

Riding on a ceremonial vehicle, President Uhuru Kenyatta arrived at the packed Stadium at 11.30am to a rapturous song by Ceremonial Trumpeters of the Kenya Defence Force amid rousing cheers from the crowd. Four minutes later, the national anthem was played.

After a lap of honour, the Commander-in -Chief was escorted by the Chief of General Staff Major General Julius Karangi to inspect the guard of honour mounted by the KDF.

Apart from the speeches at the stadium, a vibrant and colourful  ceremony dubbed the Trooping of the Colours was conducted by the uniformed forces; a break from the traditional parade.

There was a display of aerial might by the military as the Air Force wing of the military took to the skies displaying Kenya’s might in fighter jets.

Helicopters flew-by with banners with inscriptions “Hongera Kenya @ 51” and “God Bless Kenya”. The Kenya Army Paratroopers known as the Green Eagles were also not left out of the parade as they swooped down in their parachutes despite the strong winds, to the amazement of President Uhuru Kenyatta and other guests.

“I have had such a great time. I enjoyed watching the parachutes, the parade and the entertainment,” said an excited 11-year old Morris Kimutai.

The highlight of the ceremony was the entertainment by various groups including the afri-pop group, Sauti sol, Mt. Elgon Sabaot Cultural dance group, Parastatal choir, the General Service Unit choir, the beautiful Dipela Tsa Ga Kobokwe cultural troupe from Botswana among other  others.

“This is a day to celebrate victory and promise. It is a time to reflect our progress as we survey our nation’s prospects. We remember the long, painful struggle for our freedom,” said the President.

Uhuru was in a jovial mood as he could be seen humming along to the tunes of the  ‘Sura Yako’ song performed by Sauti Sol. He was also spotted on several occasions, smiling and chatting with other guests while enjoying the entertainment provided.

“I enjoyed, the celebrations and particularly the speech by the President and the stern stand he has taken on security. This, indeed, was a great day,” said Martha Mutembei, one of the attendees.

On the stand, the public was not left out. Miniature Kenyan flags fluttered the air the ‘Mexican’ wave style that is synonymous with rugby fans.

Two girls on the stands with their identical outfits and hairdos spotting the country’s national colours carried the day.

In what could be a first during such celebrations, a video clip on the transformation and development programme in Kibera was played on a large screen, attracting the attention of those in attendant.