Kenya’s founding president, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, has been honoured by the Government of Angola for his role in Africa’s fight for independence and unity.
The recognition, given nearly half a century after his death, highlights how his influence still resonates across the continent.
The award was presented during Angola’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, in Luanda.
It was received on behalf of the Kenyatta family by his son, Muhoho Kenyatta, according to a statement from the Office of the Fourth President, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Angola’s national awards marked a major milestone for the country as it celebrated five decades since gaining independence from Portugal.
Leaders and representatives from several African nations attended the event, where key figures who supported liberation movements were recognised.
In his remarks, Muhoho Kenyatta said the honour was not just a family recognition but a tribute to the spirit of Pan-Africanism that guided Mzee Kenyatta’s leadership.
“This award is a reminder of the shared journey of African nations toward freedom and unity,” he said.
Kenya’s Ambassador to Angola, Joyce Khasimwa M’maitsi, helped facilitate the ceremony, which also highlighted the historical friendship between Nairobi and Luanda.
The Office of the Fourth President thanked Angola’s President João Lourenço and his government for the gesture, describing it as a reaffirmation of Africa’s solidarity.
Mzee Kenyatta, who led Kenya from 1964 to 1978, was one of the early advocates of African unity and independence.
His participation in the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) placed Kenya at the centre of continental diplomacy in the post-independence era.
It also serves as a reminder of the principles that shaped Kenya’s foreign policy in the years after independence.
The Kenyatta family, through the former president’s office, congratulated the people of Angola on reaching their 50-year milestone and wished them continued peace and prosperity.