Jomo Kenyatta not only by Kikuyu and Kenyans, but by Africans more widely. After 1963, Maloba noted, Kenyatta became "about the most admired post-independence African leader" on the world stage, one who Western countries hailed as a "beloved elder statesman." His opinions were "most valued" by both conservative African politicians and Western leaders. On becoming Kenya's leader, his anti-communist positions gained favour in the West, and various pro-Western governments gave him awards; in 1965 he for instance received medals from both Pope Paul VI and the South Korean government. In 1974, Arnold referred to Kenyatta as "one of the outstanding African leaders
Jomo Kenyatta Ross briefing him on how to deal with the Colonial Office. Kenyatta became friends with Ross' family, and accompanied them to social events in Hampstead. He also contacted anti-imperialists active in Britain, including the League Against Imperialism, Fenner Brockway, and Kingsley Martin. Grigg was in London at the same time and, despite his opposition to Kenyatta's visit, agreed to meet with him at the Rhodes Trust headquarters in April. At the meeting, Kenyatta raised the land issue and Thuku's exile, with the atmosphere between the two being friendly. Following the meeting, Grigg convinced Special Branch to monitor Kenyatta. Kenyatta developed