1963-1978
A journey from humble beginnings to becoming
Kenya’s first president.
Led Kenya to independence and became its first president.
Fought against colonial land injustices in Kenya.
Championed African unity and independence across the continent.
Explored Kikuyu traditions and critiqued colonialism in his book.
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.
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….
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….
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)….
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….
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….
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 ….
– Jomo Kenyatta
Let us all unite in building our nation. Together, we shall overcome any challenge.
Africa’s strength lies in its unity. Let us celebrate our heritage and work towards a prosperous future.
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.
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.
