Preparations for this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations have started in Wajir, with the government assuring that the stadium under construction will be completed in time for the June 1 national event.
Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, on Thursday led the National Celebrations Steering Committee on an inspection tour of the stadium that will host the national event.
He was accompanied by Defence PS Patrick Mariru and Aviation and Aerospace Development PS Teresia Mbaika.
The inspection marks the start of a critical phase in preparations for the celebrations, which will be hosted in Wajir for the first time.
During the tour, the team inspected ongoing works at the 10,000capacity Wajir Stadium and received technical briefings from contractors, engineers and senior National Government Administrative Officers on the progress of construction and projected timelines.
Omollo said contractors would work around the clock to ensure the stadium is ready ahead of the celebrations.
“The stadium is currently at about 10 per cent completion and we expect substantial completion by the first week of May as we get ready for the Madaraka Day celebrations,” he said.
He said hosting the national event in Wajir reflects the government’s effort to ensure all regions are included in major national milestones.
“Hosting Madaraka Day in Wajir shows the government’s commitment to ensuring every Kenyan feels part of the national story,” Omollo said.
The PS also highlighted key infrastructure projects underway to support the celebrations, including expansion and rehabilitation works at Wajir International Airport.
According to Omollo, works on the airport’s terminal building, taxiway and runway are expected to enhance efficiency and ease movement into and out of the county during the national fete.
He said the decision to host the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir is part of the national government’s policy of rotating major national events across different regions to ensure inclusivity.
Madaraka Day, celebrated on June 1 each year, marks Kenya’s attainment of internal self-governance in 1963, a key milestone in the country’s journey towards independence.
Omollo said hosting the celebrations is also expected to accelerate infrastructure development in Wajir county and the wider North Eastern region.
The delegation also visited the county commissioner’s residence, which will undergo refurbishment ahead of the State luncheon to be hosted by President William Ruto on the day.
“Beyond the celebrations themselves, the preparatory investments in the stadium and surrounding public facilities are expected to generate lasting economic benefits for local communities, including employment, improved public amenities and greater national visibility for the region,” he said.
Omollo emphasised the need for close coordination among agencies involved in the preparations.
He called on National Government Administrative Officers, the Wajir county leadership, security agencies and implementing ministries to work together to meet the set timelines.
He said comprehensive security and logistical arrangements will be put in place to ensure the safety and comfort of participants expected to attend the national event.
The celebrations will also provide an opportunity to showcase the cultural heritage of the North Eastern region while strengthening national cohesion.
The national fete is expected to attract senior government officials, dignitaries and Kenyans from across the country to Wajir County for the historic event.
