Kenya Celebrates Obama's Inauguration

Tens of thousands of Kenyans celebrated Barack Obamas inauguration as the 44th president of the US at parties across the east African nation as images of their favourite son were beamed onto big screens.Thousands gathered at a public viewing at Nairobis Kenyatta International Conference Centre, clapping and cheering as President Obama spoke.

In Kogelo, the Western Kenyan village where his late father grew up and where his grandmother still lives, residents slaughtered goats and bulls and feasted in Obamas honour.

Earlier in the day, around 3,000 people gathered at a school in Kogelo to watch traditional dancers in brightly coloured costumes.

In nearby Kisumu, thousands danced into the evening as music blasted out from loudspeakers.

Parties were expected to continue late into the night as Kenyans, who often do not need much of an excuse to enjoy a few beers, take the chance to fete the new president.

Kenyans are fiercely proud of Obama, and the celebrations allowed people to forget their woes, which include a food crisis threatening 10 million people with starvation and memories of the ethnic clashes that killed over 1,500 people one year ago following disputed elections...

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• President
• Obama
• Kenya
• Celebration
• Kogelo
• Family
• Roots

[mswanson502]

I am so happy for everyone in Africa. I know they've got to be so proud. I am a white woman in the United States. I feel the same sense of pride. Our country has come a long way!

[TheDebata]

It's a Beautiful thing!

[alicechaos]

Love it!

[tenshinhann1]

@OBAMAisHalfCaste

OBAMA IS BLACK

not

mixed

[OBAMAisHalfCaste]

Obama the first half-caste biracial mixed-race president not black

[mikebyrd42069]

we should send barry back

[Pennyfromgoodtimes]

Joy around the world! Proud to be an American!