State House staff shower Uhuru with gifts during farewell party [Photos]

President Kenyatta thanked them for the role they played in helping him to deliver on his mandate as Head of State.

"On my own behalf, the First Lady and my entire family, we are grateful to all of you, all departments of State House, for we have worked very well together. We shall miss each one of you, and we will carry fond memories of working together in the service of our nation.

“It has, indeed, been a great pleasure and a great joy working with you because if you are working in an environment where you are happy, you are also able to deliver,” President Kenyatta said.

President Uhuru Kenyatta held a farewell party where he celebrated his 10-year presidency and stay at State House Pulse Live Kenya

The farewell party was preceded by a special thanksgiving prayer and worship service to mark his and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta's successful 10-year tenure.

The interfaith prayer service was attended by State House staff from all State Houses and State Lodges led by State House Comptroller Kinuthia Mbugua and Chief of Staff in the Office of the First Lady Constance Gakonyo.

During the party Uhuru received numerous gifts from his staff including, a cake, and priceless memorabilia.

READ: Kanze Dena's farewell message to Uhuru

President Kenyatta also had a message for members of staff who will remain at State House to support the incoming administration and serve with zeal.

“The Government, the country cannot stop. It will move on. We took the mantle from others and we shall pass it on to others because the country must move forward.

“Just like the way we found many of you here, we shall leave many of you here. Mine is to request you to accord the same cooperation to the new administration. Help them to achieve more milestones so that our country can move forward,” the president said.

President Uhuru Kenyatta held a farewell party where he celebrated his 10-year presidency and stay at State House Pulse Live Kenya

Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua praised that President Kenyatta’s vision and leadership saw the country make great strides in development.

Kinyua cited the Stand Gauge Railway (SGR) and the Nairobi Expressway as some of the legacy projects of President Kenyatta that will benefit the country for generations.

State House Comptroller Mbugua highlighted the transformation of State House under President Kenyatta’s leadership that has made it a more conducive place to work in.

READ: Govt to splash Sh258 million on State House, State Lodges

“You have shown us how to serve. Your generosity and your openness to other Kenyans and your care for their welfare, your patriotism, these are lasting examples you and the First Lady left for posterity. You have been our model of what a leader can and should be. Your legacy is seen, and your example will always remain in our hearts,” Mbugua said.

During the thanksgiving service, the sermon was delivered by African Inland Church (AIC) Kenya Bishop Abraham Mulwa who commended President Kenyatta for his steadfastness and commitment to serving the nation.

President Uhuru Kenyatta held a farewell party where he celebrated his 10-year presidency and stay at State House Pulse Live Kenya

"You have dedicated your time, energy and intellect to the service of this nation. You're a victor. You're all victors. Don't be held back by your doubters. You've done well. Move on with your heads held high, and never be afraid to offer yourselves again for the service and prosperity of your country. Don't tire,” Bishop Mulwa said.

During his tenure, President Kenyatta has seen the construction of two additional State Lodges in Kisii and Kirinyaga counties.

The Kisii State Lodge was officially gazetted as a protected area on October 21, 2020, while the Kirinyaga State Lodge was opened in June 2021.