President Uhuru Kenyatta on Saturday, January 11 sent a message of condolence following the death of one of Kenya's oldest allies.
President Kenyatta encouraged the people of the Sultanate of Oman after losing His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said.
Sultan Qaboos had been one of the longest-serving Arab leaders and died on Friday, January 10, aged 79 years after a long illness.
In his message, President Kenyatta described the late Sultan as a visionary and charismatic leader who was committed to the transformation of his country.
“Sultan Qaboos was a great leader who was devoted to improving the wellbeing of his fellow countrymen. He was also committed to international peace and worked hard towards promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.
“May the Almighty God comfort the people of Oman as they mourn this great leader. We will forever cherish his contribution to human development through his generosity whose fruits are enjoyed by many in the international community,” the President announced.
The head of state recollected the colourful history between Kenya and Oman especially the pre-colonial commercial ties between Mombasa and the Sultanate.
President Kenyatta assured the government and the people of Oman that Kenya stands with them at this difficult period of mourning.
Ties between Oman and Kenya date back to the 17th century when Mombasa and other coastal cities were part of the Sultanate of Oman.
Kenya's coastal strip was occupied by Oman for a total of 186 years between the years of 1698 and 1728.
The coastal cities and towns still have traces of architecture and culture from Oman.
Some of the residents of these cities can trace their ancestry. Mombasa is Kenya's second-largest city and Omani architecture and culture is evident.
