Thousands of Kenyans gathered in Homa Bay County on Sunday for the historic 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, marking the first time the national event was hosted in the lakeside region.
The 12,000-seater Raila Odinga Stadium was packed to capacity by midnight, with eager citizens braving the cold to witness the landmark occasion.
President William Ruto led the celebrations under the theme “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Growth.”
His message focused on unity and economic transformation through lake-based industries such as fishing, aquaculture, and water transport.
Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar, the event’s Chief Guest, underscored international partnerships in climate resilience and water-based development.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga attended in a rare show of solidarity, commending the government’s efforts, saying, “These are policies we once proposed — let us support progress.”
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said Homa Bay was chosen for its strategic location on Lake Victoria’s shores, symbolizing Kenya’s renewed focus on the blue economy.
