Ismaili.NET - Heritage F.I.E.L.D.

On this most joyous and unique occasion of Kenya’s Independence, I am happy and honoured to join the multitude of well-wishers from all over the world to extend to Mr. Kenyatta and his Government my warm and sincere congratulations.

Having spent a number of my childhood years in Nairobi, it is with personal emotion that I will watch Kenya accede to independence, to join the ranks of the free nations of the world. By the fact that the Africans of Kenya have won their freedom in company with substantial minorities of Asian and European origin, Kenya’s Independence becomes an event of major importance, not only to Africa but also to the world; the challenge of the future is exciting and offers immense opportunities. As the spiritual leader of one of these minorities,

I pledge our absolute loyalty and co-operation in the task of building the new Kenya nation. Our energies, skills and resources, though limited, will be devoted to the new Kenya, and we pray that on this day the Prime Minister and his colleagues will be blessed with wisdom, courage and statesmanship to lead Kenya into an era of peace and progress.

(East African Standard December 12, 1963)

For Daily Nation photo, see attachment