King Charles III has extended heartfelt Jamhuri Day wishes to President William Ruto and the people of Kenya, praising the long-standing relationship between the two nations and expressing optimism about expanding cooperation in key global and regional priorities.
In a special message delivered as the country marks 62 years as a republic, the King — together with Queen Camilla — congratulated Kenyans on the national holiday, calling the occasion a meaningful moment for both countries.
“My wife and I have great pleasure in sending Your Excellency, and the people of the Republic of Kenya, our heartfelt congratulations on the auspicious occasion of Jamhuri Day,” the monarch said.
King Charles described the UK–Kenya relationship as an “enduring partnership” built on trust, shared values, and decades of collaboration. Reflecting on his past visits, he noted the warmth and hospitality he has always received and reaffirmed his commitment to seeing bilateral ties grow stronger, particularly in advancing mutual prosperity, tackling climate change, and safeguarding global biodiversity.
The message comes a year after his landmark state visit to Kenya from October 31 to November 3, 2023 — his first trip to a Commonwealth nation as monarch. During that visit, he opened the State Banquet with Swahili greetings, saying: “Mabibi na mabwana, hamjambo? Niaje! Ni furaha yangu kuwa nanyi jioni ya leo.”
The trip held deep personal significance, as Kenya is where Queen Elizabeth II learned of her father’s death in 1952 and ascended to the throne. King Charles himself had visited the country multiple times before becoming monarch, including in 1971, 1978 and 1987.
While in Nairobi last year, he acknowledged the painful legacy of colonial rule, condemning the “abhorrent and unjustifiable acts of violence” inflicted during the era and expressing “greatest sorrow and deepest regret” — a notable gesture, although short of a formal apology.
The visit also spotlighted strengthened cooperation in climate action, youth innovation, cultural exchange and community development.
In his Jamhuri Day message, King Charles celebrated the United Kingdom–Kenya British Council Season held this year, crediting it with injecting new momentum into bilateral relations. He also noted that climate and environmental protection remain central pillars of collaboration following the renewal of the UK–Kenya Strategic Partnership.
“Kenya’s leadership in championing climate resilience and green growth across the region is an inspiration,” he said, expressing confidence that the two nations will continue deepening cooperation in these critical areas.
Jamhuri Day commemorates Kenya’s transition to a republic on December 12, 1963, marking the final step in the country’s break from colonial rule and the beginning of its first presidency under Jomo Kenyatta. President William Ruto is leading this year’s celebrations at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
Closing his message, King Charles offered warm wishes to President Ruto and Kenyans across the country.
“My wife and I extend our warmest good wishes to you and to the people of the Republic of Kenya for the year ahead.”
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