By Gilbert Mmbaya
Thousands of Kenyans gathered at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County on Sunday to mark the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, in a historic event that saw the lakeside county host the national celebrations for the first time since independence in 1963.
The event was presided over by President William Ruto, who arrived at the 12,000-seater stadium, which had already been filled to capacity by Saturday night, with some attendees arriving as early as midnight to secure a spot.
Also present at the national fete were ODM leader Raila Odinga, and Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar, who attended as the chief guest. The ceremony highlighted the significance of unity, national progress, and the economic opportunities available through Kenya’s natural resources.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said Homa Bay was deliberately chosen to host this year’s celebrations due to its strategic location along the shores of Lake Victoria, aligning with the event’s theme:
“Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Growth.”
“The county was chosen because of its strategic location on the shores of Lake Victoria, making it an ideal venue to highlight this year’s theme,” Mwaura said.
The celebrations included a military parade, cultural performances, and speeches focused on unlocking economic opportunities in Kenya’s blue economy sector, which includes fishing, transport, and water-based tourism.
This year’s Madaraka Day was not only a celebration of Kenya’s self-governance since 1963, but also a symbolic gesture of inclusivity and national unity, as the government continues to rotate national events across counties.
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