Obama harvests fruits of his labour

By Standard Team

President Kibaki congratulated US President Barack Obama on being declared winner of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize.

Kibaki said the award was a fitting tribute to the US President for his efforts in initiating dialogue aimed at bringing about sustainable peace across the world.

"On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I take this opportunity to congratulate you on being declared winner of the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize. The award is indeed another milestone in your illustrious public career and recognition of the contribution you are making to the well being of humanity," said President Kibaki.

US President Barack Obama was declared winner of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize

The President said he was confident Obama would use his new status as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate to open new frontiers in international diplomacy.

new impetus

"I have no doubt that this award will give new impetus to your efforts to bring about lasting peace in areas where war has ravaged communities over long periods of time. I also encourage you to continue opening the avenues of dialogue to bring about a better understanding among the family of nations," said Kibaki.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga saluted Obama for winning the Nobel Peace Prize.

Raila said that Obama deserved the international award for his tireless efforts to unite the world.

While congratulating Obama, Raila said termining Obama’s recognition as significant, coming ten months after assuming office.

"Obama’s efforts to unite the world cannot be marched by any other US President. This makes him suitable for the award," the PM said in Kisumu on Friday.

He said took leadership at a time when the world was polarised and at war, but has managed to rally the world to find lasting peace.

Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka congratulated Obama, saying he deserved the prize for opting to pursue diplomacy to unite the world.

The VP, through a statement said Obama deserved the Nobel Prize for his monumental journey to the White House, which inspired billions across the world and overcame racial prejudice in the United States.

And in a statement issued from Monaco, Kenya’s Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai said Obama’s win is extremely exciting and inspiring for Kenyans, Africans, and indeed the world.

Maathai said ever since entering the Senate, but especially after becoming the President of the US, Obama has demonstrated willingness to forge a more peaceful world.

" In that pursuit he has emphasised the need for inclusion, diplomatic engagement, and mutual respect," she said.

Speaking on phone from Kazakhstan, Tourism Minister Najib Balala said Obama deserved the prize.

"Obama has shown the world he is a visionary and a man who means well for Americans the world," he said.