Mashujaa Day is observed on October 20 every year in Kenya. ‘Mashujaa’ is the Swahili word for ‘Heroes,’ and because of this, Mashujaa Day is also called ‘Heroes’ Day’. This significant day honors all who have contributed to the fight for Kenya’s freedom and is a public holiday in the country.
Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, a place of great significance in Kenya's liberation struggle.
The Origins of Kenyatta Day
Mashujaa Day was formerly known as Kenyatta Day, in honor of Jomo Kenyatta, who was an important figure in Kenyan politics. Kenyatta played a crucial role in the independence movement in Kenya when the country fought the British colonial powers for its liberation.
In October 1952, he was arrested along with four other people, namely, Achieng’ Oneko, Bildad Kaggia, Fred Kubai, Kung’u Karumba, and Paul Ngei, by the British powers in Kenya. He was charged with planning and directing the Mau Mau movement. The Mau Mau Society was conspiring actively against the colonial government. Mau Mau was a rebel group that plotted to overthrow the British colonial government that ruled Kenya at the time.
These six Kenyan nationalists were tried in Kapenguria in 1952-53 and were imprisoned in Northern Kenya. Their arrest was a significant development in the struggle for independence. As a result, October 20 was selected as a public holiday to celebrate the event and show respect for these six freedom fighters. The holiday was established by activists in 1958 and gathered huge popularity by 1959.
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The Kapenguria Six: Achieng’ Oneko, Bildad Kaggia, Fred Kubai, Kung’u Karumba, Paul Ngei and Jomo Kenyatta
From Kenyatta Day to Mashujaa Day
As a result of Kenya’s adoption of a new constitution in August 2010, several alterations were made to the public holidays in the country. Why was Kenyatta Day changed to Mashujaa Day?
After the first African Legislative Council elections in 1957, the electorate became more aggressive in calling for the release of Kenyatta. He was eventually released in August 1961. Following Kenya’s independence, the white colonial government was dismantled and replaced by a new Kenyan government.
Documentary: Kapenguria Six continue to define the Kenya’s spirit of heroism by Gachoka King'ori
Celebrating Mashujaa Day
Go for the festival in Nyayo Stadium: Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi hosts a festival in honor of Mashujaa Day. The Kenyan flag's crimson, black, and green colors appear prominently in the military parade. A presidential address is delivered, and a motorcade parade takes place, followed by skydiving demonstrations.
Visit the statue of Kenyatta: Plan a visit to see the statue of Kenyatta, who is also known as the ‘Father of the Kenyan Nation.’ An international conference is also held every year at the Kenya International Conference Centre, Nairobi.
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Read Kenya's history: You can read relevant history books to know more about the rich history of Kenya. The country also has beautiful landscapes that you can explore.
Key Aspects of Kenya
Languages: Both Swahili and English are recognized as the official languages of Kenya.
Education: Both primary and secondary education in Kenya are free as well as mandatory for all children.
Driving: Kenya has a left-side driving system.
Marriage: The Constitution of Kenya allows polygamy.
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Key Exports: Kenya’s major exports include coffee, gold, black tea, refined oil, and cut flowers.
Kenya's Major Exports
Values and Traditions
Strong patriotism: The heroic people of Kenya fought tooth and nail to save their nation from colonial rule. Apart from that, they also struggled to save their nation’s natural environment for a favorable future.
Family-oriented society: Kenyans find it important to spend quality time with their family and friends. Kenyan delicacies like Chapati and Pilau are relished on every significant occasion.
Historical event: The event is a significant historical event for Kenyans. Since the arrest of the Kapenguria six, October 20 is considered an important national holiday.
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