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About Jamhuri Day (Kenya)

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About Jamhuri Day (Kenya)

Jamhuri Day, on 12 December, is Kenya's national day. Jamhuri means "republic" in Swahili. It marks independence on 12 December 1963 and the founding of the republic on the same date in 1964.

It is a public holiday with ceremonies, parades, music and dance across the country, and the black, red, green and white flag flies from homes, matatus and shops.

Families gather for nyama choma, ugali, chapati and pilau, and Kenyans everywhere share the spirit of harambee, pulling together.

  • 12 December
  • Independence 1963, republic 1964
  • Kenya's biggest national day

Where it began

Kenya was a British colony for many years. After a long struggle for freedom, the country became independent on 12 December 1963, with Jomo Kenyatta as Prime Minister.

Exactly one year later, on 12 December 1964, Kenya became a republic, and Kenyatta became its first President. The day honours both events.

The flag of Kenya, flown high on Jamhuri DayKenya

How it grew over time

  1. 1920

    Kenya Colony was formed under British rule.

  2. 1950s

    The struggle for independence grew strong.

  3. 1963

    Kenya became independent on 12 December.

  4. 1964

    Kenya became a republic on the same date.

  5. Today

    The President leads the national celebration and addresses the country.

How it is celebrated in different places

  • Nairobi

    A main ceremony with parades, flypasts and speeches takes place at a national stadium.

  • Counties

    Towns hold local ceremonies with dance groups and choirs.

  • Kenyans abroad

    Communities in the UK and US gather for music and food.

Jamhuri Day (Kenya) moments

The streets of Nairobi, the capitalNairobi, Kenya
Nairobi's skyline on a clear dayNairobi, Kenya
Nairobi's Jamia Mosque in 1936Nairobi, Kenya
The Maasai jumping dance, adumuKenya
Traditional dance at a cultural festivalKenya
A feast of grilled meat and riceKenya

Jamhuri Day (Kenya) today

Kenyans wave the black, red, green and white flag and enjoy dancing and music. Families gather to share nyama choma, roasted meat, with ugali and friends.

The day also honours those who worked for the country's freedom.

How people celebrate Jamhuri Day (Kenya)

  • Flag-raising and parades
  • Nyama choma and family meals
  • Music and traditional dances
  • Flags on matatus and homes
  • Harambee spirit
  • Diaspora gatherings

How to wish well

  • Say "Happy Jamhuri Day" or in Swahili "Heri ya Siku ya Jamhuri".
  • Messages about unity, harambee and pride in Kenya suit everyone.
  • Keep politics out of your wishes.

Questions about Jamhuri Day (Kenya)

When is Jamhuri Day?

On 12 December every year.

What does Jamhuri mean?

Jamhuri is the Swahili word for "republic".

What does Jamhuri Day celebrate?

Kenya's independence on 12 December 1963 and becoming a republic on 12 December 1964.

How do you say Happy Jamhuri Day in Swahili?

"Heri ya Siku ya Jamhuri".

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