Kenya's National Anthem & Pledge of Loyalty

Kenyan Flag

When Kenya got their independence from the United Kingdom in 1963, Kenya commissioned 5 people and a musician to come up with a national anthem for the new Republic of Kenya.

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 and 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. 

Now for the Kenyan's Pledge of Loyalty (Allegiance)...

I pledge;

My loyalty to the president and the Republic of Kenya 

My devotion to the words of our national anthem, 

My life and strength in the service of our republic 

In the living spirit embodied in our national motto, 

Harambee! 

And perpetuated in the Nyayo Philosopy of Peace Love and Unity. 

Notes:

Harambee is Swahili for "all pull together".

The Nyayo Philosophy became nationalism in 1980's by President Moi who was trying to pull the country together from its long history of tribalism. He said: 

"In unity and love lies our salvation and strength as a nation. Sectionalism, tribalism, and personality cults are destructive forces which the nation cannot afford today."

Maybe one day, I will work on coming up with KSL version of the national anthem and pledge of loyalty!