Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has appealed to a new group of young graduates to step into leadership roles guided by integrity, humility, and a commitment to justice, telling them that Kenya’s future depends on values-driven leadership.
Speaking at the 2024/2025 Kenyatta Trust Graduation Dinner held in Nairobi on Friday evening, Uhuru said the next generation must resist pressure to conform to corruption, division, or selfish ambition.
“This is the charge I lay before you tonight: go out into the world with humility and lead. Lead with integrity, a commitment to justice and always with peace in your hearts,” he told the scholars.
Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta congratulating a Kenyatta Trust graduate/XThe former President, who attended the event alongside former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta, reminded the graduates that leadership is not defined by titles, but by character, courage, and the willingness to serve others.
He spoke under the theme, “From Learners to Leaders,” and emphasised that courage will be necessary as they take on responsibilities in society.
“Always do right even when the right thing isn’t popular,” he said, adding that true leadership often requires standing alone before others can follow.
He told the young graduates that Kenya will only thrive when its people choose to build bridges rather than deepen divisions.
The dinner marked the celebration of 41 scholars who have completed their undergraduate and tertiary education across various institutions in Kenya and abroad.
Many of them come from backgrounds where educational opportunities were limited, and their journeys were shaped by resilience and determination.
The retired President noted that their success is not solely personal, but part of a collective responsibility to uplift others.
“You have learnt that the bonds that sustain our nation are woven from mutual tolerance and respect. Keep in mind your sacred duty that we are indeed our brother’s keeper,” he said.
He reminded them that education should not end with personal achievement, but should translate into service and social responsibility.
The Kenyatta Trust, founded in 2010, supports bright but financially disadvantaged students through scholarships, mentorship, and personal development programs.
The trust’s mission is to develop leaders who are grounded not only academically, but also emotionally and socially.
Uhuru said one of the founding principles was to foster a sense of national identity beyond tribe or region.
“We wanted to nurture individuals who do not identify with a tribe or a region, but as part of a great nation,” he said.
“A people with shared destiny, because the building of a great nation begins with the ability to see one another as equals in purpose and hope.”
Director of the Trust Kirigo Ndegwa lauded the scholars’ achievements, noting that over 68 per cent of Kenyatta Trust graduates are now gainfully employed.
“It’s not by chance. Kenyatta Trust scholars are built differently; they are resilient, responsible, and truly remarkable,” she said.
The evening was filled with celebration, gratitude, and reflection, marking another step in the Trust’s ongoing mission to nurture leaders who serve with integrity.
by JAMES GICHIGI
