Kenya Jamhuri Day (Independence) — 12 December
Kenya celebrates its Jamhuri Day (Independence) every year on 12 December, marking the events of 1963.
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Why 12 December?
Kenya celebrates Jamhuri Day on 12 December, the most important date in its national calendar; 'Jamhuri' is Swahili for 'republic.' The day marks two milestones at once: independence from Britain on 12 December 1963, and the country becoming a republic exactly one year later, on 12 December 1964, with Jomo Kenyatta as its first president. Independence followed years of struggle, including the Mau Mau uprising of the 1950s and a long push for majority rule. The black, red, green and white flag — its central Maasai shield and crossed spears symbolising the defence of freedom — was raised as the Union Jack came down at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi. Jamhuri Day is a public holiday featuring a presidential address, military parades and feasts. It sits alongside Madaraka Day (1 June) and Mashujaa Day (20 October) in Kenya's trio of national holidays, but Jamhuri remains the definitive celebration of nationhood.
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Quick facts
- Date
- 12 December (every year)
- Official name
- Jamhuri Day (Independence)
- Commemorates
- 1963
- Public holiday
- Yes, in Kenya