Wajir hosts first-ever Madaraka Day as State highlights development gains

Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura / HANDOUT

Wajir County is set to make history on Monday by hosting Madaraka Day celebrations for the first time since independence, in a move the government says underscores its commitment to inclusion, national unity and equitable development.

Speaking at Harambee Annex in Nairobi ahead of the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura said the decision to take the national event to Wajir reflects a deliberate effort to ensure all parts of the country feel represented in Kenya’s development agenda.

Mwaura described the celebrations as a significant milestone for the North Eastern region, which has historically remained on the margins of major national events.

“History is unfolding in Kenya’s North Eastern region as Wajir County prepares to host the country’s 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations for the very first time since independence,” he said.

He noted that despite global economic challenges, including disruptions linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis, Kenya’s economy has remained stable, enabling the government to continue investing in development projects and initiatives aimed at strengthening national cohesion.

The spokesman said this year’s celebrations go beyond the annual national ceremony and instead symbolise a renewed commitment to the ideals that inspired Kenya’s struggle for self-rule.

According to the government, hosting the celebrations in Wajir demonstrates that no region should feel excluded because of its geographical location or historical marginalisation.

The county headquarters has undergone a major facelift ahead of the national event, with infrastructure projects transforming the town.

Among the key developments is a newly constructed stadium with a capacity of more than 10,000 people, which will host the main celebrations.

Roads linking the stadium to residential areas, government offices and other facilities have been upgraded to bitumen standards, while modern street lighting has been installed to improve security and support economic activities.

The government has also completed a mini State Lodge and supporting facilities, which are expected to enhance the region’s capacity to host future national functions.

Mwaura said the celebrations provide an opportunity to showcase the wider development agenda currently underway across Wajir, Garissa and Mandera counties.

He revealed that nearly 30 major projects are being implemented across the three counties, including seven modern markets aimed at supporting trade, livestock businesses and cross-border commerce.

In Garissa County, six student centres are under construction to provide learning spaces and mentorship programmes, while five modern libraries are being established to improve access to educational and digital learning resources.

The government also highlighted progress under the Affordable Housing Programme, with five projects expected to deliver 2,148 housing units across the region.

Mwaura said the housing developments are creating employment opportunities for young people while stimulating local economies.