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How the world is reacting to Obama's reelection

10. Kenya

In Nyang'oma Kogelo, Kenya, where Obama's father was born, the Democratic win spurred raucous celebrations.

In the village about 258 miles west of Nairobi, Christian and traditional songs reverberated alongside African drumbeats and dances early in the morning as Obama’s win was announced on TV, reports Monitor Correspondent Fredrick Nzwili. 

“The people are feeling proud," Gerald Majany who teaches Law and Peace Studies at the Africa Nazarene University told the Monitor. The pride is inspired by a feeling that their 'son' is leading the world’s greatest nation,” he said.  “There are also good lessons for Kenya politicians too; that politics is about issues, not tribe, race or religion.”

Kenya’s President Mwai Kibaki quickly released a statement wishing Obama good luck in his second term.

“We are always proud of association with you,” he said.  

“Tonight’s electoral outcome will reignite faith worldwide, but especially in Africa, in the restorative capacity of democracy to deliver change and discard entrenched divisions,” said Kenya’s Prime Minister Raila Odinga in another statement.

Obama visited the village in 2006 to see his step-grandmother, who still lives there, putting the remote village on the map as the government installed electricity, brought easier acces to water, and paved roads. Charities have also sprung up here in an effort to help improve living conditions. The village hopes this will continue in Obama’s second term. 

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Mark Sappenfield
Editor

Dear Reader,

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