1963-1978

Jomo Kenyatta

The Father of the Nation

A journey from humble beginnings to becoming
Kenya’s first president.

Jomo-Kenyatta

First President of Kenya

Led Kenya to independence and became its first president.

Advocate for Land Rights

Fought against colonial land injustices in Kenya.

Pan-African Leader

Championed African unity and independence across the continent.

Author of Facing Mount Kenya

Explored Kikuyu traditions and critiqued colonialism in his book.

The Boy Who Would Lead.

Jomo Kenyatta's Journey Begins

Born as Kamau wa Muigai in a village nestled among the ridges of Ngenda, young Jomo Kenyatta’s early life was a mix of simplicity and hardship. His parents, Muigai and Wambui, were farmers, raising their family in the lush lands of sugarcane fields and cattle pastures. Though his exact birth year remains uncertain, it’s believed to be around 1895.

Kenyatta’s childhood revolved around herding goats, sharing stories by the fire, and learning Kikuyu traditions from his parents. Life taught him resilience early. After his father’s death, his mother remarried according to custom, but her struggles under a harsh new husband eventually led her to leave. Kenyatta, still a boy, bravely set off across the countryside to reunite with his mother’s family and retrieve his baby brother after her passing.

Back in Ngenda, young Kenyatta grew up with whispers of change. Stories of strange, pale-skinned men and their “iron snake” weaving across the land fired the imaginations of local boys. One elder’s prophecy spoke of these visitors: men “like butterflies, with pale skins,” who would alter life forever. Among those who had seen this unfolding world was Musa Gitau, a neighbour turned church minister who had lived among the strangers at Thogoto. His stories of the white man’s “magic” fascinated Kenyatta.

Determined to see this new world for himself, Kenyatta made a bold decision: he would leave the familiar ridges of Ngenda and join Musa Gitau at Thogoto. It was a step into the unknown, but one that would set him on the path to becoming a legend.

 

Jomo Kenyatta's Journey.

FROM KAMAU TO JOHNSTONE:

The making of a young Jomo Kenyatta

In 1909, a young Kamau wa Ngengi, later known as Jomo Kenyatta, walked into the missionary school at Thogoto, eager for a new beginning. Life there was far from glamorous—Kamau washed dishes, sewed, and….

HOW KAMAU BECAME KENYATTA:

A journey through war, love, and land

Jomo Kenyatta’s path from a curious young man to a national figure began with a mix of hard work, misfortune, and adventure. After leaving school, he joined John Cook, a sisal plantation manager in Thika….

KENYATTA’S LEAP INTO POLITICS:

Beer, beliefs, and a Bible and Oath

In 1924, a chance meeting with James Beuttah in Pumwani set Jomo Kenyatta on the path to political activism and the liberation struggle. Beuttah, a quiet force behind the Kikuyu Central Association (KCA)….

FROM LONDON TO MOSCOW:

Kenyatta’s first steps into global politics

In 1929, the Kikuyu Central Association (KCA) decided to send their secretary, Jomo Kenyatta, to London to champion their cause. Despite warnings from British authorities that the trip was futile, Kenyatta….

KENYATTA'S JOURNEY:

From Moscow classrooms to Pan-African dreams

Jomo Kenyatta’s odyssey in the 1930s was more than a tale of political evolution—it was a masterclass in perseverance and adaptation. After an enigmatic letter announcing his move from London, Kenyatta ventured….

KENYATTA AND KAU:

Navigating Kenya’s political tempest

When Jomo Kenyatta returned to Kenya after years abroad, he found a country simmering with suppressed nationalist fervor. The Kenya Central Association (KCA) had been banned, but its spirit persisted ….

Our children may learn about the heroes of the past

–  Jomo Kenyatta

Key Moments in Jomo Kenyatta's Leadership

Video Gallery

1963 Independence Day:

Witness the moment Jomo Kenyatta became Kenya’s Prime Minister and ushered in independence.

1969 Parliamentary Visit:

Kenyatta’s historic address to the Kenyan Parliament, reflecting his vision for the nation.

1969 National Rally:

Re-election celebrations showcasing his leadership and connection with the people.

1972 OAU Fair Speech:

A powerful speech at the OAU Fair in Nairobi, emphasizing Pan-African unity.

Words That
Inspired a Nation

Key Speeches

  • 1963 Independence Day Address:

Let us all unite in building our nation. Together, we shall overcome any challenge.

  • 1972 OAU Fair Speech:

Africa’s strength lies in its unity. Let us celebrate our heritage and work towards a prosperous future.

The freedom we enjoy today is not a gift, but a responsibility.

The Enduring Legacy of Jomo Kenyatta

Jomo Kenyatta’s impact extends beyond his presidency. Institutions like Kenyatta University and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport stand as enduring tributes to his vision. His leadership principles continue to inspire, and his life story remains a beacon of resilience and determination.

Landmarks and Tributes

Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum:

A solemn resting place in Nairobi.

Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC):

A hub for international diplomacy and commerce.

Kenyatta Avenue:

A bustling street symbolizing progress and unity.