By: Clement Wasike
In a world increasingly interconnected and driven by individual ambition, the concept of patriotism might seem out-dated or even irrelevant to some. Yet, for Kenya, prioritising patriotism is a crucial imperative for a prosperous and fulfilling future.
Patriotism should not be about which “community” is in power. In any case the notion of a community being in power is hopelessly fallacious because it is individuals who wield power, not communities. Therefore, disregarding the call and duty to patriotism on account of certain individuals holding certain offices is a misinformed and absurd idea.
But what is patriotism? The word patriotism comes from “pater”, Greek for father. It means love for a fatherland from which flows pride and belief that one’s country is worth protecting no matter what.
Patriotism, at its core, is not blind loyalty or unquestioning obedience to authority. It is a deep and abiding love for one’s country and an unbending commitment to its wellbeing that manifests in ready willingness to contribute to her progress. It is about recognising the unique strengths and challenges of our nation, celebrating our diversity, and working together to overcome obstacles.
For patriotism to take root in Kenya, a number of imperatives ought to be prioritised.
Firstly, we must elect to shun tribalism. One of the biggest hurdles to Kenya’s progress is the persistent scourge of tribalism. Patriotism overrides the narrow dictates of ethnic chauvinism to become a unifying force. By emphasising shared values and a common destiny, we can foster a sense of national unity and break down the barriers that merchants of dissension often mount in a bid to scatter the entrenchment of the pursuit of common purpose.
Secondly, a patriotic citizenry is actively engaged in building a stronger nation with a greater future. This happens when patriotism is a constant, not an on and off engagement based on change of guard at the top. Truly patriotic citizens are more likely to participate in civic duties, such as voting, paying taxes, and volunteering for community service irrespective of which leadership epoch they find themselves in. Such citizens are also more likely to uphold the law, respect the rights of others, and contribute to the overall wellbeing of their communities.
Thirdly, patriotism inspires a sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute to the nation’s overall progress. It motivates individuals to excel in their fields, to innovate and create, and to contribute to the economic and social progress of the country.
Fourthly, patriotism fosters a deep appreciation for our rich cultural heritage, including our diverse traditions, varied expressions of heritage and cultures. It encourages us to preserve our history and pass it on to future generations, ensuring that the legacy of our ancestors continues to inspire and enrich our lives.
Fifthly, patriotism, especially in this age of globalisation and rapid social change, gives us the moral courage to counter negative narratives that undermine national pride and promote cynicism and disillusionment. Patriotism provides a positive and uplifting counter-narrative, fostering a sense of hope and optimism about the future of nations.
Cultivating patriotism is way more than waving flags and singing the national anthem. It requires a more conscious effort to nurture.
For patriotism to prosper, we need to value our history because understanding our past, including our struggles and triumphs, is crucial for forging a strong national identity. We need to also celebrate our cultural richness and respect the unique contributions of every community because building an inclusive nation is essential. Besides, we need to embrace integrity, honesty, and a deep sense of responsibility in all our endeavours if we are to build a nation deserving of respect in the eyes of others. That is over and above participating in civic duties that make us responsive people who care for good governance. But perhaps the best way to show patriotism is to support indigenous Kenyan enterprises by choosing Kenyan-made products and supporting local businesses as a way of strengthening our economy and creating jobs for fellow citizens as well as protecting our natural resources and preserving our environment for future generations.
By fostering a deeper sense of national unity, embracing our diversity, and working together to build a more just and equitable society, we can unleash the full potential of our nation and create a future that we can all be proud of.
Clement Wasike is a former banker turned social critic and political commentator.Â
