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Ruto mourns Sheikh Tahnoun, the Abu Dhabi ruler's representative

A file picture of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan. (Photo: Presıdentıal Court Of Unıted Arab Emırates/Handout)

By Hanifa Adan | 04 May 2024

The UAE, under the influence of leaders like Sheikh Tahnoon, has been an important partner for Kenya.

Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, a prominent figure in the United Arab Emirates (UEA) and the Abu Dhabi ruler's representative in the Al Ain region, has died.

President William Ruto sent a condolence message following the death on Saturday to the family of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, president of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, and the people of the UAE.

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"The late Sheikh Tahnoun will be remembered for the pivotal role that he played in the establishment of the United Arab Emirates, by working together with the founding father of the nation, Sheikh Zayed, which culminated in the declaration of the Union on December 2, 1971," Ruto said.

Sheikh Tahnoun was born into the Al Nahyan family, which has been ruling Abu Dhabi since 1761, and was deeply involved in the political and social development of the UAE.

He played a crucial role in the country's early days, working alongside the UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, during the formative years of the union of the emirates in 1971.

Sheikh Tahnoon's contributions were not limited to political affairs, as he also had interests in cultural and economic initiatives that have helped shape the modern landscape of Al Ain and the wider region.

His leadership in Al Ain was marked by a commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while promoting sustainable development, which has made Al Ain a critical hub in the UAE.

The country, under the influence of leaders like Sheikh Tahnoon, has been an important partner for Kenya in terms of foreign direct investment.

The economic relationship includes investments in real estate, hospitality, and retail. Dubai Ports World's involvement in developing the Port of Mombasa is a direct testament to the UAE's commitment to enhancing its economic ties with Kenya.

Additionally, Sheikh Tahnoon's era saw humanitarian and development aid flowing from the UAE to African countries, including Kenya.

The UAE has been involved in numerous projects in Kenya, ranging from healthcare initiatives to support during natural disasters and infrastructure development.