“Nothing to celebrate”: Discontent grows over high cost of living on Jamhuri Day
By Barack Oduor |
The Eastleigh Voice spoke to Nairobi residents about the Jamhuri Day celebrations, eliciting mixed reactions.
Several Nairobi residents had no reason to honour and celebrate Jamhuri Day. The day, marked on December 12, commemorates Kenya's attainment of independence in 1963 after many years of colonial rule. A year later, on the same day, the budding nation officially adopted the name "the Republic of Kenya."
The Eastleigh Voice spoke to Nairobi residents about the Jamhuri Day celebrations, eliciting mixed reactions. Godwin Chikamai, speaking at Jeevanjee Gardens, expressed his disappointment, stating that the high cost of living has left many Kenyans with nothing to celebrate.
Keep reading
- I welcome criticism, but let it be based on facts not fake news, Ruto tells off critics
- President Ruto urges parents to register children under Taifa Care in January
- Ruto orders establishment of transparent royalty system to end artist exploitation
- Kenya Airways warns of flight disruptions at JKIA due to military drills
"Is there anything to celebrate, really? I don't think we should, as the government has failed to provide better healthcare and affordable education," said Chikamai.
He criticised the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), describing it as ineffective and detrimental to Kenyans' access to healthcare.
"Just look at the newly unveiled health insurance—it’s a complete mess that is worsening Kenyans' suffering. The poor have no viable alternative under this new scheme," he said.
Godwin Chikamai, speaking at Jeevanjee Gardens, expressed his disappointment. (Ahmed Shafat)
At Jeevanjee Gardens, several individuals were sprawled on the lush green grass of the city’s recreational grounds.
Another resident, Charles Rofa, expressed frustration with the government’s failure to address the high cost of living.
"The cost of living is unbearable. The government must tackle this issue to bridge the widening gap between the rich and the poor in the country," suggested Rofa.
The Eastleigh Voice also spoke to Daniel Okumu, who sat deep in thought amidst other Nairobi residents passing time either sleeping or gazing at the sky, seemingly lost in their troubles.
"I came here to reflect rather than join other Kenyans for Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens. This country’s leadership has done little, if anything, to address corruption, tribalism, and nepotism," said Okumu.
Nairobi residents at Jeevanjee Gardens on Jamhuri Day. (Ahmed Shafat)
President William Ruto led the Jamhuri Day celebrations on Thursday, December 12, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.
In his speech during the occasion, President William Ruto noted that Kenyans were celebrating the 61st anniversary of the nation's independence.
"We remember that our nation was born from the painful sacrifice and tireless, often lonely, and gruelling efforts of men and women driven by the conviction that their sweat, tears, and blood were a worthy price to pay for ushering millions of their brothers and sisters from the dark, cold night of imperial brutality into the warm daylight of freedom," Ruto said.
The President acknowledged that the country was experiencing "particularly challenging times as a people, largely owing to dynamics beyond our control, resulting in a high cost of living, greater difficulty in finding employment, and fewer opportunities for entrepreneurs."
Reader comments
Follow Us and Stay Connected!
We'd love for you to join our community and stay updated with our latest stories and updates. Follow us on our social media channels and be part of the conversation!
Let's stay connected and keep the dialogue going!
Latest News For You
