Independence & Kenyatta (1963–present)
On December 12, 1963, Kenya gained independence. Jomo Kenyatta — former Mau Mau prisoner and charismatic leader — became the first president. His motto "Harambee" (Swahili: "Let us pull together") became the national rallying cry and symbol of unity and community spirit.
The political history of Kenya after independence is a mix of progress and challenges:
- Jomo Kenyatta (1963–1978): Nation-building, economic growth, but increasingly authoritarian government and land grabbing by the elite
- Daniel arap Moi (1978–2002): 24 years of one-party state, corruption, and political repression, but also stability
- Mwai Kibaki (2002–2013): Democratic transition, economic boom, new constitution (2010), but also post-election violence in 2007/08
- Uhuru Kenyatta (2013–2022): Son of the founding president, massive infrastructure projects (SGR railway), but high national debt
- William Ruto (since 2022): First president from humble beginnings ("Hustler"), focus on economic opportunities for the youth
