Today’s Doodle honours Tanzania’s Independence Day, which commemorates the day Tanganyika, Tanzania’s mainland province, declared independence in 1961.
Climbers brought a torch to the summit of Tanganyika’s Mount Kilimanjaro–highest Africa’s point–that same year, and dubbed its peak Uhuru, which means “Freedom” in Swahili. This historic declaration of independence was quickly extended offshore to the archipelagic nation of Zanzibar, and the nations merged in 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanzania.
More than 300 Tanzanians will replicate the trek to Mount Kilimanjaro, which is regarded by many as a symbol of liberation, to commemorate the country’s 60th anniversary of independence. Cultural events and official speeches are usually held at the National Stadium in the former capital of Dar es Salaam on Independence Day.
Traditional delicacies such as Ugali (cornmeal porridge) and pilau (Tanzanian spicy rice) are eaten by citizens as they take time off from work and school to reflect on the history and look forward to the future of the East African nation.
Happy Independence Day, Tanzania!