Homa Bay gears up to host Madaraka Day celebrations
The Raila Odinga Stadium — designated as the official venue for the national event — has been expanded into a 12,000-seat arena.
Homa Bay County has finalized preparations and key infrastructure improvements ahead of the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations.
The Raila Odinga Stadium — designated as the official venue for the national event — has been expanded into a 12,000-seat arena, thanks to collaborative efforts between the county and national governments.
Last Thursday, members of the National Celebrations Steering Committee toured Raila Odinga Stadium to assess the ongoing preparations.
The stadium is undergoing final touches, including the construction of new terraces and the installation of modern facilities to align with national standards.
President William Ruto is set to commission a range of national and county projects during his visit, including affordable housing units, the revamped Homa Bay Pier, and enhanced fish landing sites and markets.
This year’s Madaraka Day celebrations will spotlight the Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs.
A three-day conference on the theme is planned, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki expected to officially open the event, and President Ruto closing it on the final day.
In preparation, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) have begun upgrading two key roads leading into Homa Bay Town.
Meanwhile, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has improved Kabunde Airstrip, with continued development on the apron and terminal building.
These upgrades will allow the facility to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the Embraer, ensuring efficient transport for visiting dignitaries.
Additionally, Kenya Power has intensified the installation of street lighting, while the county government is working to enhance water supply to major event venues and nearby neighborhoods.
Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, who chairs the National Celebrations Steering Committee, commended the progress made, attributing it to strong collaboration between national agencies and the Homa Bay County government.
"We’re on track to complete the most strategic components of Kenya’s development agenda in time for Madaraka Day. We welcome residents of Homa Bay and Kenyans from across the country to join in these historic celebrations," Omollo said.
On Thursday, Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya led a high-level delegation to assess the readiness of the host county.
The team included PS Umi Bashir (Culture), PS Elijah Mwangi (Sports), PS Betsy Njagi (Blue Economy), and Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura.
They were joined by Dennis Itumbi, who is coordinating the thematic aspects of the national celebrations, along with Regional Commissioner Flora Mworoa, County Commissioner Moses Lilan, and representatives from security, intelligence, and technical teams across key ministries and agencies.
Hosting national celebrations in counties is part of a broader effort to showcase Kenya’s cultural diversity and deepen national unity.
Past venues include Masinde Muliro Stadium in Kericho, Green Stadium in Embu, and Kwale Stadium.
