• This year’s theme Tourism, Wildlife, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) reflects the government’s push to position the sector at the centre of Kenya’s economic agenda

The 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations will take place at Nyayo Stadium on December 12, 2025, following the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) full‑dress rehearsal held on December 11.

This year’s theme Tourism, Wildlife, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) reflects the government’s push to position the sector at the centre of Kenya’s economic agenda.

President William Ruto says tourism remains a key pillar of Kenya’s growth plan, noting its ability to create jobs, attract foreign exchange, and strengthen the country’s global profile.

He has set an ambitious target: 5 million visitors and over Sh1 trillion in revenue by 2028. To achieve this, the government is investing in new tourism products, innovation, and infrastructure, alongside unveiling a refreshed national brand, “Magical Kenya: The Origin of Wonder.”

President William Ruto. (Photo credit: X)

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Ruto says this is why the 2025 Jamhuri Day theme focuses on tourism and wildlife.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano says the theme highlights the progress Kenya has made in tourism, conservation, and the MICE sector.

The Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano. (Photo credit: X)

She credits the President’s direct support and says the ministry remains committed to ensuring the sector’s growth. According to her, anchoring Jamhuri Day on tourism transforms the national holiday into an economic and cultural catalyst.

“We shall continue serving with dedication and full commitment to ensure these efforts bear fruits,” she says.

In Kenya, Jamhuri Week acts as the lead‑up to Jamhuri Day, where the government showcases the year’s chosen theme through exhibitions, conferences, and sector‑focused activities. Everything done during the week is meant to prepare the country for the national celebrations on December 12.

For 2025, the thematic week ran from 8–11 December 2025.

Kenya celebrates Jamhuri Day because it marks two of the most important milestones in the country’s history:

On December 12, 1963, Kenya gained independence from British colonial rule.

Similarly, on December 12, 1964, exactly one year later, Kenya became a republic, with Jomo Kenyatta sworn in as the first President.

The word “jamhuri” means “republic” in Swahili, which is why the day carries both meanings: Independence Day and Republic Day.

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