This archive report was first published on 13 December 2019.
Burj Khalifa Honors Kenya's 55 Years of Independence ¶
The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, displayed the Kenyan flag on Jamhuri Day, December 12, 2019, in a spectacular display of light and color.
Photos and videos of the event showed the Burj Khalifa's façade lit up with the Kenyan flag, rotating from top to bottom as tourists watched in awe.
The display was a significant moment for Kenyans, who took to social media to express their excitement and pride. Many questioned the cost of the display, with some estimates suggesting it could have cost up to Sh27.5 million (AED1 million) for five three-minute impressions.
It is unclear whether Kenya paid for the display or if it was a gesture of goodwill from Dubai, which has a large number of Kenyan visitors and workers.
President Uhuru Kenyatta had vowed to continue the fight against corruption in his Jamhuri Day speech, but it remains to be seen whether the display was a symbol of Kenya's progress or a reminder of the country's challenges.
Here are some reactions from Kenyans on Twitter:
- Questioning the cost: How much was paid for Burj Khalifa ad??? #JamhuriDay2019 — Mundhir Abdirahman (@eastleighpundit) December 12, 2019
- Beyond elated: It was interesting to watch people celebrate the Burj khalifa tower because a Kenyan flag has a stronger meaning outside the country than inside the country. This is deep #JamhuriDay2019 — Chengo Wenslauce (@wensy_ke) December 13, 2019
