Embrace unity, compassion - Uhuru urges Kenyans

Former President William Ruto during a past event/Office of the 4th President/X

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has wished Kenyans a peaceful and joyful Christmas, urging the nation to embrace unity, compassion and hope during the festive season.

In his Christmas Day message on Thursday, the fourth President extended warm wishes to families across the country and reminded citizens of the values that bind the nation together.

"Fellow Kenyans, may this festive period remind us of the values that unite us, love, unity, compassion and hope for a brighter future," he said. 

Uhuru also appealed for caution on the roads as thousands travel to celebrate with loved ones, stressing the need for patience and adherence to traffic rules.

“No journey is worth a life,” he said, calling on Kenyans to prioritise safety to ensure everyone arrives home to their families.

"As many travel to be with loved ones, I urge all to exercise caution on our roads. Let us be patient, obey traffic rules, and remember that no journey is worth a life. Together, let us commit to arriving safely," he said.

Looking ahead, the former Head of State wished the country a prosperous 2026 marked by peace and mutual respect.

He prayed for God’s blessings upon all Kenyan families and the nation at large.

"Looking ahead, I wish you a prosperous New Year 2026, filled with unity, peace and mutual respect for the good of our beloved nation. Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year to you all," Uhuru said. 

"God bless you, your families, and our great country, Kenya."

On Wednesday, President William Ruto issued a brief Christmas message to Kenyans, wishing the country a peaceful festive season and a prosperous new year.

He also urged road users to exercise caution as holiday travel peaks.

Ruto acknowledged the end of the year and expressed gratitude to citizens for their resilience throughout 2025

“Wakenya, 2025, we clocked it. I wish you a Merry Christmas, a great and blessed 2026," he said.

The statement captured his holiday wishes and reflected his view that the nation had successfully completed the year.

The President also addressed road safety, a recurring concern during the festive period when millions of Kenyans travel to rural homes and holiday destinations. 

He urged motorists to act responsibly and avoid behaviors that could lead to accidents. 

“Na kule barabarani, let’s drive carefully, avoid unnecessary losses," he said.

His message comes at a time when road safety agencies have intensified campaigns aimed at reducing the number of fatalities that traditionally rise during the Christmas and New Year season.

Ruto extended his gratitude to Kenyans, otherwise asanteni Sana Mungu awabariki nawapenda jameni."

The period typically records high traffic volumes, prompting government agencies and law enforcement officers to call for compliance with safety regulations. 

Public service vehicles have been under increased scrutiny while authorities have urged passengers to report any dangerous driving.

Kenyans continue to share Christmas messages on social platforms, with many reflecting on the year’s challenges and achievements.