Wajir to host 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations as preparations begin

Preparations are underway for this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, which will be held in Wajir County for the first time in history.

A national steering committee led by Raymond Omollo conducted an inaugural inspection of the Wajir Stadium, the venue for the June 1, 2026 national celebrations.

Dr. Omollo was accompanied by Patrick Mariru and Teresia Mbaika, as the team on Thursday assessed progress on key infrastructure projects and logistical preparations required to host the national event.

The delegation inspected the ongoing construction of the 10,000-capacity Wajir Stadium, which is expected to host thousands of Kenyans, dignitaries and government officials during the celebrations.

Speaking after the inspection, Dr. Omollo said the facility is currently about 10 percent complete, but contractors have been directed to work around the clock to meet the timeline.

“The stadium is currently at about 10 percent completion, and we expect substantial completion by the first week of May as we get ready for the Madaraka Day celebrations,” he said.

He added that hosting the national event in Wajir demonstrates the government’s commitment to equitable national inclusion, ensuring that all regions feel part of the country’s development and national identity.

Apart from the stadium works, the government is also implementing several infrastructure upgrades to support the celebrations.

These include the expansion and rehabilitation of Wajir International Airport, including improvements to the terminal building, taxiway and runway. The upgrades are expected to enhance efficiency and ease the movement of visitors travelling to the region.

The committee also visited the County Commissioner’s residence, which will undergo refurbishment ahead of the State luncheon that will be hosted by William Ruto on Madaraka Day.

host the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir is part of the national government’s policy of rotating major national events across different regions of the country.

He noted that the preparations will accelerate development in North Eastern Kenya, with investments in infrastructure expected to create jobs, improve public amenities and raise the region’s national profile.

The Principal Secretary also emphasized the need for strong collaboration between National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), the Wajir County Government, security agencies and other ministries to ensure preparations are completed on schedule.

Authorities have also begun planning comprehensive security and logistical arrangements to guarantee the safety and comfort of participants during the event.

Dr. Omollo said the celebrations will also offer an opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the North Eastern region while advancing the government’s development agenda.

Madaraka Day, marked every year on June 1, commemorates Kenya’s attainment of internal self-governance from Britain on June 1, 1963, a critical milestone on the country’s path to full independence.

This year’s celebrations are expected to attract thousands of Kenyans from across the country, marking a historic moment for Wajir County as it hosts the national event for the first time.