Kenya aims to boost relations with UAE

Dubai: Kenyans living in the UAE celebrated their national day on Friday. This year national day - known as 'Jamhuri' day, meaning 'republic in Swahili language - marked 45 years since the country gained full independence from the United Kingdom.

Jamhuri Day is generally regarded as Kenya's most important holiday, marked by traditional cultural festivities.

Celebrations started in Abu Dhabi last Wednesday where local dignitaries, ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps joined Kenyan expats in toasting the achievements of the east African country.

Speaking at the event, the Charge d'affaires at the Kenyan embassy in Abu Dhabi, Edward Mwangi hailed the cordial relations the UAE has with the East African country.

"The multifarious cooperation between the governments of Kenya and the UAE has been growing over the years, especially in economic, political and social sectors. Kenya is a strategic partner of UAE with the two countries working closely for mutual benefits," he said.

Celebrations to mark the day were extended to the Global Village on Friday, at the East and West African Pavilion, where a cultural display to promoted the cultural diversity of Kenya.

Currently riding on the triumphant win of US President-elect Barack Obama - who can trace his roots in Kenya - the country has upped its strategy to attract tourists to its shores.

The unique destination include attractions such as safaris trips to the Masai Mara to watch the world's largest wildebeast migration.

At the Global Village, guests celebrated with fun activities that included cultural entertainment and performances by dance groups from Kenya.

The fiesta attracted a number of sponsors including Air Arabia and Al Azizah Foodstuff Company.