CalEvents:Dec/Dec 31
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for December 31
Date
Event
Significance
December 31, 1961
Cameroon becomes a republic
On this day, Cameroon officially became a republic. This marked a significant moment in the post-colonial history of the country, which had gained its independence from France and the United Kingdom earlier in 1960 and 1961, respectively.
December 31, 1963
Kenya becomes a republic
Kenya transitioned from a Commonwealth realm to a republic with Jomo Kenyatta as its first president. This event further solidified Kenya’s independence from British rule and its emergence as a leading nation in East Africa.
December 31, 1965
Gambia declares itself a republic
Gambia, which had become independent earlier in 1965, declared itself a republic on this day, further asserting its sovereignty and breaking formal ties with the British monarchy.
December 31, 1971
Idi Amin consolidates power in Uganda
Idi Amin, who had taken power in a coup earlier in 1971, officially consolidated his leadership in Uganda on this day. His regime would become infamous for human rights abuses, with profound consequences for Uganda and East Africa.
December 31, 1987
Birth of Anthony Joshua, British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion
Anthony Joshua, born on this day, went on to become a world heavyweight boxing champion. His success in the sport contributed to the representation of African and African diaspora athletes on the global stage.
December 31, 1999
Panama Canal handed over to Panama from U.S. control
The transfer of the Panama Canal from U.S. to Panamanian control marked the end of a long period of U.S. dominance in the region. This event was significant for Afro-Latino communities, many of whom had labored in the construction of the canal.
December 31, 2007
Kenya election violence escalates
The violence following Kenya’s disputed presidential election on December 27 escalated on this day, leading to widespread unrest, ethnic conflict, and hundreds of deaths. The crisis highlighted the challenges of democratic governance in post-colonial Africa.
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