Lenana School has a rich and storied history that began in 1949. Established by the colonial governor Philip Euen Mitchell, the institution was originally named The Duke of York School, after the British World War II battleship, HMS Duke of York.
Here is a breakdown of its evolution:
»Colonial Beginnings
- Early Days: Before the campus was completed, the first students were briefly housed at the colonial governor’s residence, which is now State House, Nairobi.
- The Ship’s Bell: A significant historical artifact remains at the school: the actual bell from the HMS Duke of York. It is mounted on a bell-shed at the front of the parade ground between the school chapel and the hall.
- Military Tradition: During the Mau Mau Uprising, the school maintained a Combined Cadet Force (CCF) with paramilitary standards to provide training for the all-white Kenya Regiment. This program continued long after independence until it was disbanded by the government following the 1982 coup attempt.
»Post-Independence & Renaming
- Transformation: After Kenya gained independence in 1963, the school slowly integrated, admitting its first Black and Asian students in the mid-1960s.
- Lenana School: In 1969, the school was renamed Lenana School in honor of Laibon Lenana, the legendary spiritual and military leader of the Maasai people.
- First Kenyan Principal: James Kamunge became the first Kenyan principal of the school, overseeing its transition into one of the country’s top national schools.
»Traditions & Culture
- The Laibons: Graduates are known as Laibons (formerly “Old Yorkists”). This title is taken from the Maasai religious leaders, reflecting the school’s cultural identity.
- The Motto: Nihil Praeter Optimum—Latin for “Nothing But The Best.”
- Facilities: Historically, the school was known for its expansive campus, which included a 9-hole golf course, a rifle range, horse stables, and professional-grade cricket ovals.
»Notable Alumni
The school has produced many of Kenya’s most prominent leaders across various sectors:
Politics: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, and Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir.
Public Service: Former IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati and conservationist Richard Leakey.
The Arts: John Sibi-Okumu, a renowned actor and journalist.