Former President Kenyatta eulogizes late German President Köhler

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered a heartfelt eulogy at the State Funeral service for the late German President Horst Köhler, held at the Berlin Cathedral.

In his speech, Kenyatta paid tribute to Köhler’s remarkable leadership, dedication to global affairs, and unwavering commitment to Africa’s development.

“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,” Kenyatta stated. “He saw the potential for sustainable progress in Africa, not merely as a theoretical ambition but as a practical and achievable goal.”

Kenyatta recalled Köhler’s pivotal visits across the African continent, where he met with leaders at both national and community levels, emblematic of his belief in the strength of partnerships between Germany and Africa. “In Kenya, he focused on advancing sustainable development goals, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation, which is vital to our country,” he added.

The former Kenyan president also emphasized Köhler’s dedication to equitable development. “What stood out most during that visit was his commitment to ensuring that the benefits of development were shared equitably—always with an eye toward empowering local communities,” Kenyatta noted.

Kenyatta praised Köhler’s vision for Africa’s future, which he believed lay in its institutions, youth, and capacity for innovation. “He knew that to bridge the divide between continents, there needed to be collaboration, respect, and mutual benefit,” Kenyatta said. “He was a tireless advocate for using education and technical training as the building blocks for lasting change.”

In closing, Kenyatta encouraged attendees to celebrate Köhler’s life and legacy rather than solely mourn his passing. He highlighted Köhler’s lasting influence on countless lives and emphasized his efforts to create a future built on international collaboration to effectively address global challenges.

The funeral service was a poignant reminder of Horst Köhler’s enduring impact on global affairs and his dedication to fostering international cooperation and sustainable development.

Besides Kenyatta, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the Federal President of Germany, Dr. Heinz Fischerthe former Federal President of Austria, and Theodor Waigel also delivered eulogies at the ceremony.

Köhler, who served as head of state from 2004 to 2010, died at the age of 81 earlier this month in Berlin after a short illness.