National Anthem and Flag

Our Flag The Kenyan flag is based on that of the Kenya African National Union and was adopted on 12 December 1963 as the country's flag. Black represents the people of the Republic of Kenya, red the blood shed during the fight for independence, and green the country's landscape; the white fimbriation was added later to symbolise peace and honesty. The black, red, and white traditional Maasai shield and two spears symbolise the defence of all the things mentioned above.

National Anthem The tune of the Kenyan National Anthem is drawn from a traditional lullaby of the Pokomo community, sung by mothers to their children. It was prepared by a five-member commission headed by Kenya's Music Adviser, Mr Graham Hyslop — the first time a group of local musicians was tasked with preparing a national anthem for government consideration. The anthem is sung in both English and Kiswahili, and was adopted at independence in 1963.

English Version

I 

O God of all creation

Bless this our land and nation

Justice be our shield and defender

May we dwell in unity

Peace and liberty

Plenty be found within our borders.

II

Let one and all arise

With hearts both strong and true

Service be our earnest endeavour

And our homeland of Kenya

Heritage of splendour

Firm may we stand to defend.

III

Let all with one accord

In common bond united

Build this our nation together

And the glory of Kenya

The fruit of our labour

Fill every heart with thanksgiving.

Swahili Version

I

Ee Mungu nguvu yetu

Ilete baraka kwetu

Haki iwe ngao na mlinzi

Natukae na undugu

Amani na uhuru

Raha tupate na ustawi.

II

Amkeni ndugu zetu

Tufanye sote bidii

Nasi tujitoe kwa nguvu

Nchi yetu ya Kenya

Tunayoipenda

Tuwe tayari kuilinda

III

Natujenge taifa letu

Ee ndio wajibu wetu

Kenya istahili heshima