Mother’s Day, observed on Sunday, May 10, saw people across the world sharing heartfelt tributes to their mothers and maternal figures in different ways.
From lavish and simple gifts to sentimental messages, many went all out in celebration of the occasion.
In Kenya, celebrities and political leaders joined in, posting emotional messages in honour of the important women in their lives.
The tributes highlighted love and appreciation, as well as the significant role mothers play in shaping families and communities.
First Lady Rachael Ruto led the national conversation, praising mothers for being the backbone of society and recognising their role in raising generations. She honoured their efforts in nurturing children and building strong communities.
“To all mothers across all nations. Happy Mother’s Day. We celebrate the love, sacrifice, wisdom, and strength that you pour into our communities every single day. Through your care and guidance you shape character, values and future of our children, raising a generation grounded in compassion, resilience and hope,” she said, according to The Star.
Aspiring presidential candidate Boniface Mwangi also paid tribute to his late mother, Wakiuru wa Mahinge, in an emotional post on X.
“Happy Mother’s Day in heaven to my mum, Wakiuru, and to all hardworking mothers everywhere. Mum, even though you’re no longer with us, your story continues to inspire me,” he wrote.
He reflected on her resilience, adding, “You carried heavy loads in silence so your children could have a better life. Through pain, abandonment, cultural expectations, and countless hardships, you stood tall and never gave up. That quiet strength became the foundation on which I stand today.”
Mwangi concluded, “Thank you for your sacrifices, your unwavering love, and the example of a woman who turned suffering into determination. Today, I celebrate you and every mother who refuses to quit.”
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also shared a photo with his mother, joking about her strict upbringing.
“Ukiona akicheka hivi huezi jua anaeza kuua na slippers,” he joked. He added, “Leo ni ku #LindaMama tu… to all of our mothers, a very happy #MothersDay.”
Beyond the political and celebrity tributes, digital creator Amber Ray and her partner Kennedy Rapudo marked the day with a family outing at a luxury resort.
Sharing moments from the day on Instagram, she wrote, “Sometimes motherhood is all about giving. Showing up for everyone, carrying everyone, pouring into everyone even on days when you are running on empty. But today, I felt poured into too.”
Across the country, families also gathered for meals and church services to honour mothers. In Kabarnet, celebrations took a lively turn with singing and dancing as residents paid tribute to local police chief Shamza Abedi. The community praised her efforts in curbing the sale of illegal alcohol and improving security in the area.