Kenya holidays-Jamhuri day

 

Jamhuri Day is a national holiday in Kenya, celebrated on 12 December each year.Jamhuri is the Swahili word for "republic" and the holiday is officially to mark the date of Kenya's establishment as a republic on 12 December, 1964. The country also gained full independence from the United Kingdom one year earlier on 12 December, 1963, so Jamhuri Day is a double event.

Jamhuri Day is often associated with Dedan Kimathi, the executed leader of the famous Mau Mau, regarded by many Kenyans as the hero who lifted the nation on his shoulders toward independence but he was executed before he completed his mission. The day is marked by numerous cultural festivities which celebrate the country's cultural heritage. Jamhuri Day has such historical significance; virtually every Kenyan celebrates the holiday to some extent.

Celebrations include feasts, political speeches, parades, and dancing. All these activities are also a reflection of the values that stand within the Kenyan society. Kenyan society is based on strong family ties. One of the most traditional and widespread ways of celebrating Jamhuri Day is feasting with the family; on this day, each Kenyan family comes together and enjoys one another, feasting usually on delicious Kenyan cuisine. Some of the appetizers they serve are: somosas, kale, or corn and tomato stew. And definitely, roasted meat and beer drinking mark the occassion.

Somehow, it is also a holiday that marks the 'incoming' of Christmas holidays. The Christmas moods settles in, with festivities, decoration of shops starts few days after and Christmas shoppings start.

 

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