The Challenge of Nationhood - A Collection of Speeches & Writings by Tom Mboya ~ eBook

It is with profound respect that I write a foreword to this selection of writings and speeches by the late Tom Mboya. It was his intention that this work, which he was preparing at the time of his assassination, should stand as a record of some of his ideas and ideals which have been of great importance in the shaping of independent Kenya. Instead, because of his untimely and tragic death, this book must be part of his memorial.

It is a tangible form of his work whose greater but less tangible form exists in so many spheres of our modern economic, social, and political development. In the dark and difficult days of the Emergency, he emerged as an uncompromising champion of the struggle for Kenya’s independence and freedom and indeed for the freedom of the whole of Africa. In so doing he was adamantly, ceaselessly, and courageously re-inforcing the efforts of those who had started the struggle for the emancipation of the people of Kenya.

Tom Mboya was one of the most effective and progressive Ministers of my Government. He was a mature political leader who never involved himself in petty and parochial matters. The part he played in the task of building the Kenyan nation is invaluable and will remain an inspiration to all of us. Tom was always prepared to devote much of his time and energy to the service of his nation and to the welfare of mankind. On many occasions, he has ably represented Kenya in important world councils and has been instrumental in bringing about rapid economic and social transformation in Kenya.

Those of us who were privileged to work with Tom knew firsthand his brilliance and restless energy. These talents he devoted to the betterment of our country, our continent, and the world. Those who will know him through the writings on the pages which follow will not fail to become aware that there was indeed a man of true greatness.

FOREWORD BY H. E. MZEE JOMO KENYATTA President of the Republic of Kenya