Kenya is in mourning following the passing of the renowned British folk singer and accomplished whistler, Roger Whittaker, who was originally born in Kenya. He is particularly celebrated locally for his 1982 hit song, “My Land is Kenya.”
Whittaker, who passed away at the age of 87, was born in Nairobi, Kenya, to English parents. He dedicated two years to national service, where he was involved in fighting against the rebel Kenya Land and Freedom Army, also known as Mau Mau. Later, he pursued a career in teaching.
Upon relocating to the United Kingdom, Whittaker ventured into music by playing the guitar and singing in folk clubs. Over the course of his extensive music career spanning decades, he reportedly sold nearly 50 million records worldwide, as stated on his website.
However, in Kenya, he is most famously associated with his song about his place of birth and upbringing. “My Land is Kenya” holds a special place and is often played on television during national holidays, alongside other patriotic tunes.
In the song, Whittaker passionately praises “the land I love… the land I was born,” delivering heartfelt lines that resonate with Kenyan audiences.
My land is Kenya, so warm and wild and free
You’ll always stay with me here in my heart
My land is Kenya, right from your highlands to the sea
You’ll always stay with me here in my heart, here in my heart
“[Roger Whittaker] has left behind a remarkable piece of art that is truly worth emulating. As Kenya celebrates 60 years of independence this year, Roger Whittaker will forever be a part of our musical history,” Edward Mwasi said on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
“May he Rest in Peace, he wrote beautiful music with heartfelt lyrics, including The Last Farewell and My Land is Kenya,” former foreign affairs permanent secretary Macharia Kamau said.