The program of activities scheduled during the visit reflects the areas in which Kenya and the United Kingdom are working together.
Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in Kenya on Monday for the commencement of a five-day state visit being their first to a Commonwealth country since their accession to the throne.
The tour comes as the East African nation celebrates the 60th anniversary of its independence from Britain.
The royals flew on RAF Voyager to the capital Nairobi and were greeted by a small group of officials during an administrative arrival, before a formal ceremonial welcome on Tuesday.
The ministerial jet flew to Kenya with 40% sustainable aviation fuel, at the King’s request.
Their Majesties’ programme reflects the areas where Kenya and the UK are working together, from tackling climate change and promoting youth opportunity and employment to working towards a more stable region.
The couple will interact with a wide range of people from Kenyan society during their state visit
King Charles will meet President William Ruto, members of the Kenyan government, UN staff, faith leaders, young people and Kenyan marines.
Highlights of the state visit will include a trip to Nairobi National Park to learn about the Kenya Wildlife Service’s conservation work.
The Royal couple will also watch Kenyan marines, trained by the Royal Marines, staging a mock covert beach landing when they visit Mtongwe naval base in Mombasa.
King Charles will acknowledge the “painful aspects“ of the UK and Kenya’s shared history during the visit.
Kenya gained independence from Britain on December 12, 1963, and the two nations have enjoyed a close relationship since, despite the violent colonial legacy of the Mau Mau uprising, which led to a period known as the Emergency.
When the foreign tour was first announced a few weeks ago, Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to the King, said that the visit will also acknowledge the more painful aspects of the United Kingdom and Kenya shared history which included the Emergency. He also stated that His Majesty will be taking time during the visit to deepen his understanding of the wrongs suffered in this period by the people of Kenya.
