The Republic of Kenya is today celebrating Madaraka Day, a national holiday celebrated every 1 June of every year as the East African country commemorates the day that they attained self rule.
Kenya attained self rule in 1963 after being a British colony since 1920. Madaraka is a Swahili word for “authority, ruling power”.
The Kenyan Embassy therefore planted trees in Harare today in celebration of this day.
Addressing delegates present during the tree planting, Kenyan Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Her Excellent, Stella Munyi said the embassy dedicated this year’s celebration of Madarika on environment and climate issues.
“58 years ago today Kenya attained self rule. Kenya embassy Harare has dedicated the celebration of Madaraka day by focusing on the environment and climate change issue.
“As part of Kenya’s foreign policy focus, environmental diplomacy is one of the 5 pillars of Kenya’s foreign policy.” She said.
Her Excellence Munyi stressed out that the tree planting is also meant to strengthen environmental diplomacy between Zimbabwe and Kenya.
“By planting trees now we are taking practical steps by advancing diplomacy of the environment in a more tangible way.” She added.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, Hon Oliver Chidawu commended the Kenyan Embassy for promoting the environment.
“The Embassy of Kenya demonstrate its commitment to environmental protection and the sustenance of our living environments…
“I thank you for your contributions to beautifying and preserving our treasured ecosystem.” He said.
Also present during the event was Acting Harare Mayor, His Worship Stewart Mutizwa, Deputy Minister of foreign affairs and International Trade , David Musabayana and Harare acting town clerk Eng Mabhena Moyo.
