Jomo Kenyatta The first Prime Minister from 1963-1964 and President of Kenya from 1964-1978. Considered the "Father of the Kenyan Nation" Date of Birth: 20.10.1893 Country: Kenya

1. Father of the Kenyan Nation: Jomo Kenyatta
2. Early Life and Education
3. Political Activism
4. Return to Kenya and Independence Struggle
5. Post-Independence Era

Father of the Kenyan Nation: Jomo Kenyatta

Jomo Kenyatta, born Ngengi Kamau, is celebrated as the "father of the Kenyan nation." He was the first Prime Minister of Kenya from 1963-1964 and the first President from 1964-1978.

Early Life and Education

Kenyatta was born into the Kikuyu tribe. At age 23, he converted to Christianity and adopted the name Johnston Kamau, later changing it to Jomo Kenyatta. He worked as a translator in the Supreme Court of Kenya and as a municipal clerk in Nairobi in the 1920s.

Political Activism

Kenyatta's political journey began in 1928 when he became the General Secretary of the Kikuyu Central Association. In 1929, he left Kenya for Europe. During World War II, he worked as a farm laborer in England.

Return to Kenya and Independence Struggle

In 1946, Kenyatta returned to Kenya and became the President of the Kenya African Union. He was arrested in 1952 and sentenced to seven years imprisonment for his involvement in the Mau Mau uprising. Kenyatta led the guerrilla struggle for Kenya's independence from Britain.

Post-Independence Era

After Kenya gained independence in 1963, Kenyatta became Prime Minister and later President. He established a one-party system during his tenure. Kenyatta died in office in 1978, and Vice President Daniel arap Moi succeeded him.