Huduma Day, previously referred to as Moi Day, is an annual Kenyan celebration that takes place on October 10. While this festival is a recent addition to the national calendar of this East African nation, its importance is rooted in the tenure and lifetime of a particular individual. Historically, it was customary for leaders to establish unique regulations and designate a day to honor their legacy. Former Kenyan President Daniel Torotich Arap’s legacy was no exception; it merited commemoration. In remembrance of Moi Kenyatta’s assassination and subsequent ascension to power, Arap proclaimed October 10 Moi Day. However, in light of the ongoing amendments to the country’s constitution, the administration deemed it necessary to reevaluate the true significance of Moi Day. Consequently, the observance was changed its name to Huduma Day.
The background of Huduma Day
Moi Day was omitted from Kenya’s official schedule of holidays prior to the August 2010 ratification of the current Kenyan constitution. It was not reinstated until 2017, when the Supreme Court of Kenya rendered a significant judicial decision. As an alternative to declaring the holiday absent from the Kenyan calendar, the judge ruled that it ought to be bestowed with a fresh appellation and a renewed significance.
On account of the ruling, Moi Day was changed to Huduma Day. Since its reintroduction in 2017, the holiday has been observed in Kenya under its new name, Swahili for’service,’ which is reflective of its renewed spirit.
Notably, the former president actively participated in the new holiday’s decision-making process. Moi requested that the extraordinary day be commemorated as a day devoted to serving the public. Pragmatism on the part of Kenyans to advance national unity, cohesion, social justice, and sustainable development was the crux of his message.
Today is Huduma Day in Kenya, which is observed through community development-oriented activities. The Kenyan government employs various initiatives, such as community development programs and statewide prayer services, to emphasize the advantages of sustainable development.
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5 intriguing details about Kenya
Kenya harbors in excess of 120 distinct species of snakes.
While coffee and tea have dominated Kenya’s export industry since the 19th century, fresh florals are gaining prominence as an export commodity at an accelerated rate.
Millions of wildebeest and zebras utilize the Mara River as a significant migration route through Kenya.
Kenya is home to the Masai Mara, where the ‘Big Five’ African game species—the lion, leopard, antelope, rhinoceros, and elephant—are prevalent.
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa, followed by Mount Kenya.
HUDUMA DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | October 10 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | October 10 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 10 | Friday |
| 2026 | October 10 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 10 | Sunday |
