Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in Nairobi, Kenya on Monday evening 30th October 2023 marking the start of a 3-day state visit to celebrate the warm relationship between Kenya and Britain and the strong and dynamic partnership they continue to forge. The visit is at the invitation of President William Ruto and comes as Kenya prepares to celebrate 60 years of independence.
The official welcoming ceremony held at State House this morning was marked by pomp and color, featuring the traditional customs and courtesies synonymous with state visits of this magnitude therefore showcasing the respect and warm reception extended by Kenya to its distinguished guests, their majesties. The grandeur and warmth of this welcoming ceremony underscore the depth of the relationship between Kenya and Britain, setting the stage for fruitful discussions and agreements in the days to come. A 21-gun salute by the military added a regal touch to the proceedings.
President Ruto and King Charles later headed to the Presidential Court for a face-to-face meeting and ended with a photo session. They joined their respective country delegations at the Credential Hall for bilateral meetings while First Lady Mama Rachel and Queen Camilla proceeded to have their own téte-a-téte meet and a tour of State House by the First lady.
This is His Majesty’s first visit to a Commonwealth nation as King. Kenya holds a distinct special place in history: It was in February 1952 when Princess Elizabeth who was enjoying a short break in Kenya with her husband, Prince Philip, became Queen following the death of her father, King George VI. She went on to visit Kenya in 1972, 1983, and 1991 – demonstrating the continued importance of the Commonwealth, and the special relationship our two countries share.
The King and Queen’s programme while in Kenya, will celebrate the close links between the British and Kenyan people in areas such as the creative arts, technology, enterprise, education and innovation. The visit will also acknowledge the more painful aspects of the United Kingdom and Kenya’s shared history, including the Emergency (1952-1960).
(photo credits Nesh Maina, Office of The First Lady of Kenya)