MESSAGE BY HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT MWAI KIBAKI TO HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

On behalf of the government and the people of Kenya and on my own behalf, I extend our message of best wishes on the auspicious occasion of your inauguration as the 44th President of the United States of America.

On this special day we recall the remarkable journey you have travelled to become the leader of your great country. Through that journey you have inspired many young and old people not only in America but around the world with a strong message of hope.

In that message you outlined the values and principles of freedom, equality and change that you have always championed. As you commence your first term in office, I am confident that you will succeed in making the United States, and indeed the world, a better place for humanity.

We, the people of Kenya, cherish the many years of bilateral ties with the U.S.A. and look forward to even stronger relations in areas that are mutually beneficial to our two countries.

We wish you God's blessings as you embark on the national and international obligations that come with the responsibilities of President of the U.S.A.

Once again congratulations on your well deserved election victory and ascension to the office of the 44th President of the United States of America.

HON. MWAI KIBAKI
PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA
20TH January 2009