NAIROBI, Kenya Oct 31 – King Charles III and Queen Camilla who are on a state visit to Kenya, paid a visit to the Eastlands Library, a symbol of cultural exchange and cooperation between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
The library, established in 1969 by the British Council, has undergone renovations during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now managed by the Nairobi County Government.
Their Majesties were warmly received by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during their visit to the library. Eastlands Library, which boasts a collection of approximately 3,000 books, primarily donated by Book Aid International, plays a vital role in the community.
The Library’s Director, Jacob Ananda, told Capital FM News that it often experiences increased activity during school closures, serving up to 300 students daily. Notably, entrance to the library is free, ensuring access to educational resources for all.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s state visit to Kenya began with a formal ceremonial welcome, complete with a 21-gun salute by the military. This grand reception was followed by bilateral discussions with President William Ruto.
Upon their arrival at State House, Their Majesties were greeted by President Ruto, who was joined by First Lady Mama Rachel and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. The royal couple then planted ceremonial African fern pine trees in the State House Nairobi lawn, symbolizing growth and cooperation between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
During their four-day visit to Kenya, King Charles III and Queen Camilla are expected to address sensitive aspects of the UK’s colonial past, acknowledging historical events that have left lasting scars. Their itinerary includes visits to Nairobi and Mombasa, with the aim of strengthening Kenya-UK relations and promoting reconciliation following the dark history of atrocities committed during the British colonial era.
The visit holds significant historical weight, as it addresses the painful legacy of the Mau Mau uprising, one of the bloodiest insurgencies within the British Empire. Over 10,000 people lost their lives, and many others endured torture during the brutal suppression of the Mau Mau rebellion in the 1950s. The group was declared a terrorist organization, a designation that persisted into independent Kenya until 2003, when the law was finally changed, recognizing Mau Mau members as freedom fighters.
King Charles III’s visit marks an essential step in fostering reconciliation, recognizing historical grievances, and solidifying Kenya-UK relations after the tumultuous history of the colonial period.
