Kenya African Union (KAU) – objectives, achievements and transformation into KANU

The Kenya African Union (KAU) was a significant political organization in Kenya’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.

1. Formation and Early Years:

• Established in 1944: The KAU was formed on October 1, 1944, with the aim of addressing African grievances and advocating for constitutional reforms.
• Leadership: Harry Thuku was the first president, and the organization initially enjoyed cordial relations with the colonial administration.

2. Objectives and Activities:

• Advancing African Interests: The KAU focused on advancing African interests, improving living and working conditions, and coordinating nationalist activities.
• Public Meetings and Rallies: The organization organized public meetings and rallies to mobilize support for independence.

3. Challenges and Repression:

• Hostile Environment: The relationship between the KAU and the colonial administration quickly deteriorated, leading to a hostile environment for the organization.
• State of Emergency: The KAU was banned from 1952 to 1960 during the state of emergency imposed due to the Mau Mau Uprising.

4. Transformation into KANU:

• Merger and Rebranding: In 1960, the KAU merged with the Kenya Independence Movement and rebranded itself as the Kenya African National Union (KANU).
• Jomo Kenyatta’s Leadership: Jomo Kenyatta became the leader of KANU, and the party played a crucial role in the final stages of the independence struggle.

The KAU’s efforts in mobilizing the masses, advocating for constitutional reforms, and promoting national unity were instrumental in Kenya’s successful attainment of independence.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science