Uhuru Kenyatta pays tribute to late German President Horst Köhler
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered a heartfelt tribute at the state funeral of former German President Horst Köhler, held at Berlin Cathedral.
In a statement shared by the Office of the former Head of State on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Kenyatta spoke highly of Köhler’s dedication to global affairs and his unwavering commitment to Africa’s development.
In his address, Kenyatta highlighted Köhler’s vision for Africa, describing him as a leader who saw the potential for sustainable progress on the continent. He noted that Köhler did not view development in Africa as a distant ambition but as a practical and achievable goal. He said the former German president actively engaged with African leaders and communities, demonstrating his deep belief in partnerships between Germany and Africa.
“President Köhler’s legacy is defined not just by his time as the Federal President of Germany, but by the incredible heart and vision he brought to global affairs. He saw the potential for sustainable progress in Africa as a theoretical ambition and a practical and achievable goal,” Kenyatta stated.
Köhler’s visit to Kenya
Kenyatta recalled Köhler’s visits to Kenya, where he prioritized discussions on sustainable development and wildlife conservation. These issues, Kenyatta said, were crucial to Kenya’s future and showcased Köhler’s commitment to preserving Africa’s natural heritage.
“In Kenya, he focused on advancing sustainable development goals, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation, which is vital to our country,” he added.
He also praised Köhler’s focus on equitable development, emphasizing that during his visits, Köhler worked to ensure that the benefits of progress reached local communities. The former German leader strongly believed in empowering people through economic opportunities, education, and technical training.
“What stood out most during that visit was his commitment to ensuring that the benefits of development were shared equitably—always to empower local communities. He knew that to bridge the divide between continents, there needed to be collaboration, respect, and mutual benefit. He was a tireless advocate for using education and technical training as the building blocks for lasting change,” the former head of state noted.
Furthermore, Kenyatta highlighted Köhler’s vision for Africa’s future, which he believed rested on strong institutions, the energy of its youth, and innovation. The former German president advocated for collaboration and mutual respect between nations, fostering meaningful international partnerships.
Kenyatta also encouraged those in attendance to celebrate Köhler’s life and contributions rather than focus solely on his passing. He emphasized that Köhler’s influence would endure through the lives he touched and the international collaborations he fostered to address global challenges.
Other prominent figures who spoke at the ceremony included German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, former Austrian President Dr. Heinz Fischer, and Theodor Waigel.
Köhler’s death
Former German President Horst Köhler passed away on February 1, 2025, in Berlin at the age of 81, following a brief illness.
Serving as Germany’s head of state from 2004 to 2010, Köhler was known for his commitment to global economic issues and his dedication to Africa. Before his presidency, he held significant roles, including Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund from 2000 to 2004.
