Toast remarks by Deputy Minister of Police Makhotso Maggie Sotyu at the National Day of the Republic of Kenya
Your Excellency the High Commissioner of the Republic of Kenya to South Africa, Mr Patrick Wamoto and Mrs Janet Wamoto;
Your Excellences, High Commissioners and Ambassadors,
Heads of international organisations;
Friends, fellow Africans;
It gives me great pleasure to represent the Government of the Republic of South Africa on this auspicious occasion in celebrating Kenya’s 50 years of independence.
As we celebrate this important milestone, we are also reminded of the many sacrifices made by the people of Kenya in their struggle for freedom and equality. In this regard we recall the Mau Mau rebellion that erupted in 1952 and resulted in the declaration of a state of emergency, the banning of political parties and the imprisonment of Jomo Kenyatta.
Five years on, the first direct election for Africans to the Legislative Council took place and the state of emergency was lifted. This set the stage for Kenya to achieve its independence in 1963 under the leadership of Jomo Kenyatta, its first President.
During the past 21 years, many high level visits have taken place between our two countries solidifying our cordial and mutually beneficial relationship. We believe that we have made progress in our efforts to strengthen the delivery of our common objectives. These objectives include enhancing regional integration, continental development and security.
Over the past 50 years, Kenya has made significant advances politically and economically. South Africa noted with appreciation President Uhuru Kenyatta’s reconciliatory message in his acceptance speech. On behalf of the Government of South Africa, I wish Kenya all the best in its efforts of fostering national unity and reconciliation.
As South Africa we are committed to strengthening our relations. We appreciate that Kenya is South Africa’s largest trading partner on the continent outside the SADC region. We look forward to the next Joint Trade Commission that is set to be hosted in South Africa this year.
As South Africans we wish to once again send our deepest condolences for the recent tragedy that has befallen the people of Kenya. South Africa stands firmly with the international community in condemning all terrorism. We will continue to support efforts aimed at peacekeeping, stability, democracy and nation-building in Somalia and the rest of the continent.
We are of the view that the Westgate Mall terror attack, has in fact served to unite the people of Kenya and the Government who have shown great determination and compassion in the face of adversity. As Africans we applaud and encourage such strength and determination.
I now propose a toast on behalf of President Jacob Zuma, the Government and the people of South Africa. Congratulations to President Uhuru Kenyatta and the Government and people of Kenya on this important milestone and we extend our best wishes to the Republic of Kenya for a future filled with peace and prosperity.
I thank you.
Enquiries:
Ms. Nomsa Hani
Head of Office & Acting Spokesperson: Deputy Minister of Police
Tel: 012 393 4469 / 021 4677023
Fax: 012 3934 614 / 021 4614174
Cell: 082 772 2053
E-mail: HaniNomsa@saps.gov.za
