The Kenyan government’s decision to decentralize national celebrations from the capital city to various counties has sparked significant changes throughout the country.
By rotating events like Madaraka Day, Mashujaa Day, and Jamhuri Day among counties, local economies are experiencing significant boosts while infrastructure undergoes extensive upgrades.
The National Celebrations Steering Committee, led by Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo, has been at the forefront of these efforts. According to Dr Omollo, the initiative not only celebrates Kenya’s cultural diversity but also enhances national unity by allowing counties to showcase their unique heritage.
“The infrastructural upgrades, economic stimulus, and national visibility that accompany hosting such an event will leave a lasting impact, making this a moment of pride and transformation for the residents of the host county,” he emphasized.
Recent examples of this transformation include the ongoing upgrades at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, which will host this year’s Madaraka Day. The facility is being renovated at a cost of Ksh500 million, expanding its seating capacity from 2,000 to 20,000. The Kabunde Airstrip in the county is also being upgraded, alongside major roads to improve connectivity. Key roadways within the county, such as the dualling of the Homa Bay highway, are also receiving significant upgrades.
Governor Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay has highlighted the importance of the event for the lakeside county, stating, “This is our chance to showcase the beauty and diversity of Homa Bay to the entire nation.”
With its vibrant fishing communities, fertile farmlands, and scenic tourism destinations, Homa Bay is set to benefit economically from the influx of visitors.
Previous hosts of national celebrations have also experienced lasting benefits. In Bungoma County, the 2024 Mashujaa Day celebrations led to significant investments in agriculture and food security, with the government supporting over 200,000 local farmers. Similarly, in Kericho County, the Universal Health Care (UHC) initiative was launched during Mashujaa Day, alongside major upgrades to the Kericho Green Stadium.
The 14th edition of Mashujaa Day celebrations was held in Kericho where the Universal Health Care was also unveiled. Before the stadium was renovated and structures built, there was no structure in place.
The 2023 Madaraka Day celebrations were held at the Moi Stadium in Embu. The stadium was also refurbished by the KDF and local contractors.
The impact of hosting such celebrations is not only immediate but also long-term, fostering local talent, creating jobs, and promoting sports development.
“Hosting national celebrations is a powerful way to unite our country while showcasing our unique cultures. This is our chance to showcase the beauty and diversity of Homa Bay to the entire nation,” Governor Wanga reiterated.
With a population of over 1.1 million, Homa Bay’s economy primarily relies on small-scale farming and fishing, supporting thousands of livelihoods.
The economic impact of hosting Madaraka Day in Homa Bay is poised to be substantial. Thousands of guests, including government officials, security personnel, media, and tourists, will visit the county in the days surrounding the celebrations.
“Local businesses will thrive, and we anticipate creating numerous temporary job opportunities, especially for our youth and women,” noted Governor Wanga.
This influx is expected to trigger a surge in demand for accommodation, food, transport, and other essential services.
President William Ruto is expected to officially open various national and county government projects, which are currently underway, including the affordable housing units, Homa Bay pier, and improved fish landing sites and markets, among others.
As Homa Bay prepares to welcome thousands for Madaraka Day, the benefits of decentralizing national events continue to ripple across Kenya, turning once-overlooked regions into thriving cultural and economic hubs.
Previously, such national celebrations have been held in Masinde Muliro Stadium, Kericho Green Stadium, Embu Stadium, and Kwale Stadium.
The host county rehabilitation effort encompasses several institutions including State Department for Sports and Sports Kenya, for example in the construction of stadium; State Department for Roads and its agencies including Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) in the rehabilitation of the road networks.
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