In London, UK, Buckingham Palace was adorned with grandeur and vibrant festivities on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, as their Majesties, King Charles and Queen Camilla, hosted a reception to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Kenya’s independence. This momentous occasion preceded their imminent state visit to Kenya and marked a significant milestone in the reign of King Charles III.
Notably, this visit holds a special place in history as it marks the first time the monarch has embarked on a journey to a Commonwealth nation since ascending the throne in September 2022. The decision to host such an event reflects a rare and remarkable gesture by a Head of State or Government to honor and celebrate Kenya’s diaspora worldwide, as articulated in a statement from the Kenya High Commission in London.
Leading the Kenyan delegation at the Buckingham Palace dinner was Roseline Njogu, the Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, representing the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Minister, Musalia Mudavadi. She was joined by Manoah Esipisu, the High Commissioner of Kenya to the UK, at this glittering, high-profile affair dedicated to recognizing Kenya’s diaspora and their invaluable contributions to the United Kingdom.
The event witnessed the presence of approximately 400 Kenyan nationals and friends of Kenya, underscoring the importance and significance of Kenya’s independence anniversary and the strong ties between the two nations.
