Pomp and Colour at Jamhuri Day rally (PHOTOS)

Kenya today marked 55 years of independence in celebrations held at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto. [Photo, Courtesy]

President Uhuru Kenyatta, the commander-in-chief, for the first time sported full military regalia.

The symbolic dressing was in line with the President’s presentation of presidential colours and honours to Kenya Army's 17 Battalion troop.

Uhuru presided over a national function in full military uniform, just as his father President Jomo Kenyatta and former President Daniel Moi did in the past.

Former President Daniel Moi. [Photo, File]

 

First President Jomo Kenyatta. [Photo, File]

After inspecting the guard of honour, the President was presented with the Kenya Army 17 Battalion, a unit conceived in 2009. Its unit colour will be purple.

The Colours symbolise the spirit of the Regiment for they bear the battle honours and badges granted to commemorate the gallant deeds performed by a specific regiment. [Photo, Courtesy]

A Kenya Defence Forces statement explained that the Kenya Army 17 Battalion unit will now showcase its colour in a Trooping Of The Colour ceremony during national events such as Jamhuri Day.