This archive report was first published on 22 August 2019.
On August 22, 2019, President Uhuru Kenyatta made a significant announcement at his father's 41st memorial service at the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi. The event marked the last public commemoration of the death of Kenya's first President, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, who passed away on August 22, 1978.
According to President Kenyatta, the decision to hold private commemorations was reached after consultation with family members. He stated that each family member would celebrate Mzee Jomo Kenyatta in the manner they remember him.
President Kenyatta expressed gratitude to former Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki for observing the day for 21 and 10 years, respectively. He also called on Kenyans to remember the founding fathers of the nation by taking actions in line with their dreams and aspirations.
The event was attended by Deputy President William Ruto, Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, and other dignitaries.
