Kenya’s fourth President, Uhuru Kenyatta, marked his 65th birthday on Sunday in the most fitting way possible — with peace, greenery and the people he holds closest.
Born on 26 October 1961 in Gatundu to Kenya’s founding father Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and Mama Ngina, Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta has always had a reputation for preferring country life over the noise of the city. On this milestone birthday, that preference was on full display.
Details emerging from the private celebration paint a picture of a serene afternoon at a family property characterised by well-kept green lawns, towering trees and a charming rustic lodge with warm wooden finishes. The venue has quietly become Uhuru’s favourite retreat since he handed over the instruments of power in 2022.
Gone were the political heavyweights and public fanfare that once defined his birthday celebrations. In their place were his wife Margaret Kenyatta, their three children Jomo, Jaba and Ngina, and a small circle of close family members who gathered to share a cake with the former head of state.
Those who know him say the shift suits him perfectly. After decades in the thick of Kenyan politics, from serving as a Member of Parliament and Minister for Finance to Deputy Prime Minister and ultimately two terms as President between 2013 and 2022, Uhuru has embraced a quieter rhythm centred on farming, family and mentoring the next generation.
He has, however, not entirely stepped away from public service. The former president continues to serve as Kenya’s peace envoy in the region, a role that keeps him engaged on matters of continental significance even as he maintains a generally low profile at home.
Kenyans on social media were quick to honour the occasion with warm messages.
”Happy 65th birthday to our 4th. Enjoy your retirement in peace, Mr. President,” one user wrote.
Another added, “From State House to farm life, Uhuru is truly enjoying life. The lawns, the lodge, the peace.”
The sentiments reflect a broader affection for a man who, at 65, appears to have found exactly what he was looking for after leaving office — genuine tranquillity.
