Speech by His Excellency President Mwai Kibaki, C.G.H., M.P., on Jamhuri Day, December 12, 2011

Abstract

I am pleased to join you all, as we mark the 48th Jamhuri Day. On this important occasion, we commemorate the attainment of Kenya's independence. We pay special tribute to the thousands of patriots who played a role in our journey towards freedom and self-rule. I also salute the Kenyan people for their dedication to the responsible management of the affairs of our country. The commemoration of this day provides an opportunity to reflect on the journey we have travelled as a nation. We thank the Almighty God for guiding us and for the many blessings he has bestowed upon our nation. We also reflect on the challenges we face and seek ways of addressing them. Indeed, we are marking this year's Jamhuri day against the backdrop of increased inflationary pressures that have seen the cost of living rise for most Kenyans. Despite the many challenges, we have witnessed significant progress in national development. The Government is now able to fund most of its budget. Annual economic growth jumped formless than one percent in the year 2002 to reach about 5 percent that is projected for this year...