President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday issued three directives during the 55th Madaraka Day celebrations with his address centering on corruption and division as Kenya's most pressing difficulties at present.
President Kenyatta urged citizens to take up an active role in the fight against corruption and division by speaking out against the ills.
"I have resolved to lead this nation in getting rid of corruption and division, the main challenges we face today, just like colonialism was then. I appeal to all Kenyans to join me in the war that we have started, to vanquish corruption
"Your providing information will be key to us nailing the perpetrators of corruption; your resolve to withdraw respect and deny and honour to those guilty will be the most powerful blow to preventing this vice," he urged.
[caption caption="President Uhuru Kenyatta inspects a guard of honour during the 55th Madaraka Day celebrations"]
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The president also urged citizens to join the "Building Bridges" initiative in their own capacity to ensure that the goal of unity is achieved.
"Every Kenyan can be part of this moment to build bridges. We can use our church and family groups, professional associations, savings and business groups, schools and NGOs to build bridges.
"You do not need to be told what to do. You know where the problems close to you are; reach out to others and unite with them to provide as many interventions as you can," the president advised.
President Kenyatta went on to urge the nation to take part in the "Big Four" agenda that would spearhead progress in four key areas of the society.
"Added to these pillars must be the most important pillar of them all: your productivity and investment as Kenyans.
"I urge every Kenyan in business today to take your growth and success as a key contribution to our country. Building value, and paying salaries and taxes are building the nation.
[caption caption="Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga with other leaders during the 55th Madaraka Day celebrations"]
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"I urge you to redouble your efforts and to invest in ambitious expansion. I urge workers and their trade unions to invest in growing the cake so that we can all have more to divide," the president urged.
