Uhuru Thanks State House Staff As Exit Draws Closer

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Sunday, July 24 commended State House staff for their commitment and dedication to serving the nation.

The Head of State thanked them for the role they played in helping him to deliver on his mandate as leader of the nation, according to a statement by State House.

"On my own behalf, the First Lady and my entire family, we are grateful to all of you, all departments of State House, for we have worked very well together. We shall miss each one of you, and we will carry fond memories of working together in the service of our nation.

President Uhuru Kenyatta, First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and State House spokesperson Kanze Dena opening a gift. /PSCU

“It has, indeed, been a great pleasure and a great joy working with you because if you are working in an environment where you are happy, you are also able to deliver,” President Kenyatta said.

The Head of State spoke after attending a special thanksgiving prayer and worship service to mark his and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta's successful 10-year tenure.

The interfaith prayer service was attended by State House staff from all State Houses and State Lodges led by State House Comptroller Kinuthia Mbugua and Chief of Staff in the Office of the First Lady Constance Gakonyo.

President Kenyatta urged those who will remain at State House to support the incoming administration and serve with zeal so as to keep propelling the nation to greater heights in development.

“The Government, the country cannot stop. It will move on. We took the mantle from others and we shall pass it on to others because the country must move forward.

“Just like the way we found many of you here, we shall leave many of you here. Mine is to request you to accord the same cooperation to the new administration. Help them to achieve more milestones so that our country can move forward,” the President said.

Speaking during the occasion, Head of Public Service, Joseph Kinyua, pointed out that President Kenyatta’s vision and leadership saw the country make great strides in development.

Kinyua cited the Stand Gauge Railway (SGR) and the Nairobi Expressway as some of the legacy projects of President Kenyatta that will benefit the country for generations.

On his part, Mbugua highlighted the transformation of State House under President Kenyatta’s leadership that has made it a more conducive place to work in.

“You have shown us how to serve. Your generosity and your openness to other Kenyans and your care for their welfare, your patriotism, are the lasting examples you and the First Lady left for posterity.

"You have been our model of what a leader can and should be. Your legacy is seen, and your example will always remain in our hearts,” Mbugua said.

In his sermon, African Inland Church (AIC) Kenya Bishop Abraham Mulwa commended President Kenyatta for his steadfastness and commitment to serving the nation.

"You have dedicated your time, energy and intellect to the service of this nation. You're a victor. You're all victors.

Invited guests dance during a special thanksgiving service at State House, Nairobi on July 24, 2022. /PSCU

"Don't be held back by your doubters. You've done well. Move on with your heads held high, and never be afraid to offer yourselves again for the service and prosperity of your country. Don't tire,” Bishop Mulwa said.

Several senior Government officials including Cabinet Secretary Margaret Kobia and Nairobi Metropolitan Services Director-General Mohamed Badi among others also attended the prayer service.