A Personal JUBILEE

 

KENYA @ 50 - A Personal JUBILEE

Kenya was born at some time between 1962 and 1964 at a convergent time in history. The decline of the British Empire, after the Second World War, and the heroic struggle of our people gave birth to a proud new nation. The winds of change ushered in freedom for a people under another nation to serve their own nation. Kenya was born free. I was born free. Our spirit has always been free.

With Kenyatta at the helm, the great ship set sail around the world. By 1972, Kenya's global running brand was set in gold. All it took was the determination of a few good men on the athletics track.  In 1978, the baton passed on to Moi. It was a first in terms of peaceful change. But, by 1982, there was trouble in the hold. However, by the grace of God, the people stayed on course. By 1992, the winds had changed and the people had switched off self-rule for democracy.

Coalition was something new, but that came in 2002. With Kibaki as captain, it would take almost ten years to vote in a new constitution. By 2012, the Jubilee had come too soon. 50 years seems long, but I had been there all along. Kenya is my twin. We were born with about 9 million others. We have changed much with time. I have some white hair now and many people of the nine are now history. The cars have changed and the roads are wider. But now our women have won the Nobel Prize for planting trees.

There will also be a new president soon. But we have been down that road before. I want my twin to outlive me. I am not sure I will see another jubilee this side of heaven, most who see a jubilee, see only one. So I am glad that I share mine with my country. Many changes are yet to be. But I pray one change will never come; that our people will never lose our freedom. May the gift of our jubilee be that every child be born free. Free to serve and enjoy this land in every county as one country, as I have done, for many jubilees to come.

Allan Bukusi

O God of all creation

Bless this our land and nation

Justice be our shield and defender

May we dwell in unity,

 peace and liberty

Plenty be found within our borders

 

Let one and all arise

With hearts both strong and true

Service be our earnest endeavour

And our homeland of Kenya

Heritage of splendour

Firm may we stand to defend

 

Let all with one accord

In common bond united

Build this our nation together

And the glory of Kenya

The fruit of our labour

Fill every heart with thanksgiving