Wajir Prepares to Host 63rd Madaraka Day Celebrations

The government has announced that key infrastructure projects in Wajir County will be completed in time for the Madaraka Day celebrations on June 1.

Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr Raymond Omollo on Thursday led the National Celebrations Steering Committee on an inspection tour of the stadium under construction in Wajir town, which will host the celebrations. The PS was accompanied by Defence Principal Secretary Dr Patrick Mariru and Aviation and Aerospace Development Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika.

The visit marked the start of an intensive phase of preparations for the event, which will be held in Wajir County for the first time.

During the tour, the delegation inspected ongoing works at the 10,000-capacity Wajir Stadium and received technical briefings from contractors, engineers and senior National Government Administrative Officers on construction progress, projected completion timelines and logistical arrangements required to meet national standards for hosting the celebrations.

Speaking at the site, Dr. Omollo said contractors would work round the clock to ensure the facility is ready ahead of the national event.

“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. Hosting Madaraka Day in Wajir is a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to equitable national inclusion. Every Kenyan, in every corner of this country, deserves to feel that they are part of our shared national story,” he said.

The PS also outlined other key projects linked to the celebrations, including the expansion and rehabilitation of Wajir International Airport. Works at the airport include improvements to the terminal building, taxiway and runway aimed at enhancing efficiency and facilitating easier movement into and out of Wajir during the national event.

Dr. Omollo said the decision to host the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir is part of the government’s policy of rotating national celebrations across different regions to promote inclusivity and ensure all Kenyans feel represented in national milestones.

Madaraka Day marks the anniversary of Kenya’s attainment of internal self-governance on June 1, 1963, a key step in the country’s journey to full independence.

According to the PS, hosting the celebrations is expected to accelerate infrastructure development in Wajir County and the wider North Eastern region.

The delegation also visited the County Commissioner’s residence, which will undergo refurbishment ahead of the State luncheon to be hosted by the President on Madaraka Day.

Dr. Omollo said the investments being made in the stadium and surrounding public facilities will have long-term benefits for the region.

“Beyond the celebrations themselves, the preparatory investments in the stadium and surrounding public facilities are expected to generate lasting economic benefits for local communities, including employment, improved public amenities and elevated national visibility for the region,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in the preparations and called on National Government Administrative Officers, Wajir County leadership, security agencies and implementing ministries to work together to meet the set timelines.

The PS added that robust security arrangements and comprehensive logistical plans will be put in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

He noted that the celebrations will also provide an opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the North Eastern region, strengthen national cohesion and highlight the region’s growing role in Kenya’s development.

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