Across Kenya, the spirit of Christmas was felt in every corner of the country as families, friends, and communities came together to celebrate the festive season despite ongoing economic challenges. This year’s Christmas was not only about joy and festivities but also about reflection, generosity, and reaching out to those in need.
From busy city streets to rural towns, Kenyans embraced the true essence of the holiday by coming together to share love, kindness, and support for the most vulnerable members of society.
Celebrations Across the Country:
In Nairobi, the capital city, large crowds gathered in public spaces like Uhuru Park and the Nairobi National Park to celebrate. Many people chose to stay in the city due to high transport costs, and some simply had no reason to travel upcountry. “I chose to celebrate here because travel costs were too high,” said Jackson Omae, a resident of Nairobi. Another city dweller, Hellen Kanyagia, explained, “I didn’t see the need to travel upcountry because I have no parents. I would just be bored.”
As revelers filled parks, entertainment spots, and outdoor venues, families enjoyed activities such as merry-go-round rides, swimming, and even unique events like piglet races in areas along Thika Road and in Ruiru. These fun activities brought people together, lifting spirits even amidst economic strain.
In Nairobi National Park, visitors took in the beauty of Kenya’s wildlife, enjoying views of tortoises and other animals. Paul Omondi, the Deputy Warden of the park, encouraged locals to visit and support national heritage sites, saying, “This is our heritage, and we need to support it.”
Acts of Giving:
While festivities filled the air, the true meaning of Christmas came through in the countless acts of kindness across the country. Many Kenyans focused on helping the less fortunate, especially street families, orphans, and prisoners. In Kisii County, over 300 street children in Kisii town received Christmas treats and gifts from the Gospel Embassy Church. Pastor Peter Murwabe reminded the community that Christmas is a time to share with those who are less privileged.
In Kericho County, orphans at AIC Bethel Children’s Home in Kipkelion East were given presents by local leaders and well-wishers. This gesture was a reminder of the importance of compassion and inclusion, particularly for children who may not have families to celebrate with.
In Kisumu, the spirit of giving continued as homeless families were served hot meals at the Kisumu Central Square. Maurice Otieno, a resident, expressed gratitude for the community’s care, saying, “Those of us without homes are happy to celebrate Christmas. We feel appreciated by society.”
Similarly, in Baringo County, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, along with Deputy Inspectors General Gilbert Masengeli and Eliud Lagat, visited officers in the multi-agency Operation Maliza Uhalifu, which is combating banditry in the Kerio Valley. The leaders brought Christmas cheer to the security officers who are serving on the frontline of operations to restore peace in the region.
Unity and Generosity:
Across the country, the Christmas celebrations embodied unity, generosity, and community spirit. In Kiambu County, entertainment venues reported high turnout as families and friends gathered to enjoy roasted meat (nyama choma) and participate in activities like piglet races. Butchers, such as Musyoka Mbuvi, noted the strong demand for traditional Christmas meals, saying, “Many people have been eating roasted meat with ugali.”
Christmas 2025 in Kenya was not only a time for fun and relaxation but also a time to reflect on the importance of giving. Whether it was through small acts of kindness or larger community efforts, the Christmas spirit was alive and well.
