Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura has said Homa Bay county will benefit economically from hosting this year's Madaraka Day.
Madaraka Day will be celebrated on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the newly commissioned Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay.
Speaking on Saturday, the Government Spokesman said the modern 12,000-seater facility stands as a testament to the transformative power of devolution.
He said the move by the government is a commitment to equitable development across Kenya.
This year’s Madaraka Day isunder the theme “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Growth”.
Mwaura said the theme showcases the transformative potential of Kenya's aquatic resources to uplift lives, create jobs, and drive economic prosperity.
"The selection of Homa Bay county, with its proximity to Lake Victoria, is intentional and symbolic. It underscores our commitment to leveraging the extensive opportunities within our lakes, rivers, and coastal waters," Mwaura said.
"The initiative aims to stimulate sustainable economic growth, generate employment, and enhance livelihoods, especially for communities residing along the lakeside."
Mwaura said significant infrastructure improvements have been made, including the Sh500 million Raila Odinga Stadium.
He said over 35 kilometers of roads have been constructed and the Kabunde Airstrip have been upgraded.
"These developments are set to improve connectivity for fishers, traders, and tourists, thereby bolstering the Blue Economy sector," he added.
Mwaura said the government has further empowered local fishers with Sh1.5 billion allocated for the development of modern fish landing sites.
These sites, he said, will feature essential facilities such as cold storage and processing units, which are crucial for reducing post-harvest losses.
While addressing the resolution of water conflicts with neighbouring countries, Mwaura quoted the President, stating, "There shall be a common license to reduce insecurity that happens in the Lake."
He said the government’s push for aquaculture is transforming Homa Bay into a hub of innovation.
Through the Aquaculture Business Development Programme (ABDP), supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), 12,429 geomembrane pond liners and 105,722 bags of fish feed have been distributed to small-scale farmers in Homa Bay and 14 other counties, boosting production.
According to Mwaura, the ongoing development of the Kabonyo Fisheries and Aquaculture Service and Training Center of Excellence (KFASTCE), funded at Sh1.3 billion by the government of Hungary, is 17.5 per cent complete.
He said the development will train youths in modern aquaculture techniques, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation.
"The Madaraka Day celebrations are sparking an economic surge in Homa Bay. Local businesses, from hotels to food kiosks, are thriving as visitors arrive," Mwaura said.
He said Homa Bay Modern Fish Market, launched by President Ruto, will provide a hygienic trading space, benefiting traders.
"The refurbished Homa Bay Pier and improved roads will further promote water-based tourism, such as boat tours to Rusinga Island, creating opportunities for local guides and boosting the county’s appeal as a tourist destination," he added.
He called on all Kenyans to join in celebrating the shared heritage and embrace the blue economy’s potential to transform lives.
He added that the government, in collaboration with the County Government of Homa Bay, the Ministry of Interior, and the State Department for the Blue Economy and Fisheries, has laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
