Jamhuri is the Swahili word for ‘republic’ and the holiday is meant to officially mark the date of Kenya’s establishment as a republic which happened on 12 December 1964. The country also gained full independence from the United Kingdom one year earlier on 12 December 1963, so Jamhuri Day is a double event and is generally regarded as Kenya’s most important holiday, marked by numerous festivities which celebrate the country’s cultural heritage.