In a historic move to cement the legacy of Kenya’s transformative 2010 Constitution, President William Ruto has officially proclaimed August 27 as “Katiba Day” — an annual national observance dedicated to reflecting on and reaffirming the nation’s commitment to constitutionalism, governance, and the rule of law.
The proclamation, issued under the authority of the Presidency, marks the fifteenth anniversary of the promulgation of the Constitution, which President Ruto described as “a defining moment in our nation’s history.” The day will be observed every year starting from August 27, 2025.
“The promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 marked a defining moment in our nation’s history, heralding a new era of constitutionalism, citizen-centred governance, devolution, and equitable development,” the proclamation states.
Katiba Day will be commemorated across the entire territory of Kenya and at all Kenyan diplomatic missions abroad. Although it will remain a working day, all government institutions — including the three arms of government and both levels of governance — are directed to organize civic activities that promote constitutional awareness and public engagement.
Schools are also expected to participate by holding educational programs that deepen understanding of the Constitution’s values and principles.
The day is envisioned as an occasion for “renewing our shared commitment to the ideals of our Constitution” and fostering “national dialogue on constitutionalism, governance, and the rule of law.”
President Ruto emphasised that the Constitution is “universally acclaimed as one of the most transformative and progressive in human history,” and called on citizens to honour the collective duty “to obey, preserve, protect, and implement the Constitution.”
The proclamation concludes with the formal affixing of the Public Seal of the Republic, making the declaration legally binding and perpetual.
This move is seen as part of broader efforts to instill a culture of constitutionalism and active citizenship, especially among the youth, many of whom were not yet born or were too young to witness the historic promulgation in 2010.
As Kenya prepares to mark the first official Katiba Day next year, expectations are high that the observance will strengthen national unity and reinforce the foundations of the country’s democracy.
