Homa Bay County is in the final stages of preparing to host Kenya’s 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, scheduled for June 1, 2025. This year’s national event, marking Kenya’s attainment of internal self-rule in 1963, will be held at the newly upgraded Raila Odinga Stadium. Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, who is leading the National Celebrations Steering Committee, confirmed that preparations are progressing steadily and that the county is ready to welcome guests from across the nation.
Speaking during a site inspection in Homa Bay on May 15, Dr. Omollo announced that this year’s celebrations will spotlight the Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs—a crucial economic pillar for the lake region. A three-day conference leading up to the national holiday will allow locals, stakeholders, and partners to explore opportunities in fisheries, marine transport, water-based tourism, and climate resilience around Lake Victoria.
According to Dr. Omollo, the high-profile conference will feature participation from national leaders and stakeholders in the sector. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is set to open the summit on day one, with Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi presiding over day two. President William Ruto will headline the final day of the conference and lead the official Madaraka Day celebrations, cementing the importance of the event for both the region and the nation.
The forum will bring together lake basin communities, beach management units, development partners, and the business community, aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Kenya’s maritime and freshwater resources. Dr. Omollo emphasized that the event is not only about commemoration but also catalyzing long-term development for the region.
Significant infrastructure development has taken place to support the festivities. Raila Odinga Stadium, the main venue, has been expanded into a 12,000-seater facility. The upgrade reflects a joint effort between the national and county governments to ensure Homa Bay is adequately equipped to host such a monumental event.
In addition, the Kenya Airports Authority has upgraded Kabunde Airstrip, with construction of a new terminal and apron in progress. Kenya Power is finalizing street lighting across key locations, while the county government has enhanced access to clean water at both public venues and residential areas to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Dr. Omollo praised the collaboration between national and county agencies, stating, “The most strategic parts of what Kenya is doing will be ready ahead of Madaraka Day.” He thanked the people of Homa Bay for their warm reception and extended special appreciation to Homa Bay Town MP George Kaluma for his dedication to the infrastructural rollout.
The Principal Secretary invited all Kenyans to be part of the historic celebration, promising an engaging and inclusive national event. “We are encouraging everyone from Homa Bay and across the country to be part of these historic celebrations. It is not just a moment of pride, but a vision for shared prosperity,” he remarked.
Dr. Omollo was accompanied during the inspection by top government officials, including Youth Affairs and Sports CS Salim Mvurya, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, PSs Umi Bashir (Culture), Elijah Mwangi (Sports), and Betsy Njagi (Blue Economy). Also present were Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura, Dennis Itumbi, Regional Commissioner Flora Mworoa, County Commissioner Moses Lilan, and senior security and technical officials.
As the June 1 date approaches, national attention now shifts to Homa Bay, with high hopes that this Madaraka Day celebration will not only honor Kenya’s past struggles for independence but also pave the way for a renewed focus on economic empowerment through the blue economy.
