Crowd bursts into cheers as President Ruto takes his lap of honour at Nyayo National Stadium

A thunderous cheer filled Nyayo National Stadium on Friday as President William Ruto began his lap of honour during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations, greeted by thousands of Kenyans waving flags and chanting in unison.

The jubilation came amid one of the most spirited national celebrations in recent years, as families, elders and youth groups packed the terraces in a kaleidoscope of black, red, green and white, the colours of the Kenyan flag.

The atmosphere was electric as Ruto, flanked by Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri and security aides, circled the stadium’s track in a symbolic gesture of unity and national pride.

Spectators leapt to their feet, bursting into cheers and applause, reflecting a collective pride in the country’s journey since gaining full independence and republic status on December 12, 1963.

That day is now enshrined in the national calendar as Jamhuri Day.

This year’s celebrations are taking on a particular significance under the official theme of “Tourism, Wildlife, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE)”, an effort by the government to highlight sectors seen as key drivers of economic growth and job creation.

Officials said the focus underscores Kenya’s vast potential as both a global tourism destination and a hub for international conferences and business gatherings.

A lap of honour is a ceremonial walk or drive around a stadium track, usually taken by a guest of honour or high-ranking leader.

It is meant to acknowledge the crowd, symbolise unity and allow the public to see and salute the dignitary.

In the context of Jamhuri Day celebrations, the President’s lap of honour serves several purposes, including to greet attendees, a show of national unity, ceremonial tradition and a gesture of respect to the public.

Before the lap of honour, security officials had overseen strict measures at all entry points to ensure safety.

A multi-agency police presence was visible throughout the morning, with officers conducting frisking and bag checks.

No packaged foods or drinks were allowed inside the stadium, and emergency response teams from AMREF, the Kenya Red Cross and St John Ambulance were strategically positioned across the venue.

Vendors lining the approach to the stadium capitalised on the excitement, selling an array of Kenyan flags, vuvuzelas, whistles and fast foods to the swelling crowd.

Many in the stands expressed a desire for President Ruto to address pressing national concerns, particularly the high cost of living and youth empowerment, issues that continue to weigh heavily on public discourse.

Dignitaries began arriving early, with Members of Parliament, senators, governors and Chief Justice Martha Koome among those taking their seats before the proceedings.

The Chief Guest of Honour, Ghanaian President John Mahama, was also in attendance, reinforcing diplomatic ties between Kenya and Ghana.

As the celebration progressed, the lap of honour stood out as a moment of collective national reflection, a showcase of patriotism, resilience and shared hope for the future.

With the 62nd anniversary of the republic underway, Kenyans from all walks of life marked the day with optimism, even as calls for leadership accountability and socio-economic progress echoed throughout the stadium.