Nairobi: India’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Dr. Adarsh Swaika, has highlighted the robust relationship between India and Kenya, emphasizing Kenya’s position as a significant partner for India in Africa. Speaking to a gathering of over 1,200 individuals in Nairobi, where Indians in Kenya celebrated the 80th Independence Day, Dr. Swaika underscored the expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture, and development between the two nations.
According to Kenya News Agency, the celebrations took place at India House and included the hoisting of the Indian National Flag, the singing of the National Anthem, and readings from the President of India’s address to the nation. Dr. Swaika praised the Indian-origin community in Kenya for their contributions to the socio-economic development of the country and announced the launch of the ‘Bharat Connection’ Oral History Project to document these contributions.
During the event, Dr. Swaika highlighted India’s recent support to Kenya in Ebola preparedness,
including the provision of around 16 tonnes of medical supplies and equipment. He assured that the Indian government would continue to support the Indian diaspora through consular services and efforts to strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties.
Dr. Swaika called upon the Indian diaspora to contribute to the national goal of Viksit Bharat@2047, India’s vision plan to transform into a fully developed nation by 2047. He noted India’s rapid development in infrastructure, digital transformation, economic strength, and women-led initiatives, while also mentioning the country’s growing role as a voice of the Global South.
Regarding Kenya-India relations, Dr. Swaika described Kenya as one of India’s foremost partners in Africa, highlighting the cooperation through high-level visits and institutional engagements. The Nairobi celebrations were part of Surya Path Tiranga, a global digital relay under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, where Indian missions worldwide participated in a sequence marking the movement of
the national flag across different time zones.
The event showcased India’s cultural diversity with performances by members of the Indian community in Kenya. Winners of four competitions celebrating Indian heritage, development, and aspirations were recognized. The celebrations concluded with Indian cuisine and community interactions, reflecting the strong bonds within the Indian diaspora and the enduring friendship between India and Kenya.
As part of the commemorations, Dr. Swaika also laid a wreath at the Nairobi South Cemetery in honor of Indian soldiers who died during the First World War.
