The day honours Kenya’s heroes and heroines, honouring those who sacrificed for the country’s freedom, progress and unity.
Observed annually on October 20, Mashujaa Day pays tribute to the gallant men and women who shaped the nation’s liberation struggle. It also recognises modern-day champions of nation-building.
This year, Kitui county had the honour of hosting the national celebrations, in line with Kenya’s long‑standing tradition of rotating national events across counties to promote unity, inclusivity and national pride.
President William Ruto presided over the ceremony at the Ithookwe stadium.
As is the norm, the Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC) led the curation and execution of the official entertainment programme.
After months of intensive regional auditions, rehearsals and production planning across Kitui, PPMC proudly presented the culmination of a 28-minute musical spectacle featuring Machakos and Makueni counties, a fusion of the authentic cultural heartbeat of the lower Eastern Region.
And in honour of fallen hero Rt Hon Raila Odinga, a quick adjustment led to the inclusion of poetry, dance and song in reverence.
The programme followed the traditional Morning session (at Ithookwe Stadium), Main National Ceremony (the presidential segment) at Ithookwe Stadium, and finally the afternoon State Luncheon at the New Kitui Mini State Lodge.
The showcase featured an electrifying blend of heritage, spirituality and contemporary creativity.
Benga legends were represented by Bosco Mulwa, Mahukum, Marash Ma Mkorea, Kakongo Sisters and Franco Kisassy Boys Band.
New Generation Benga saw action by Musomesa Mwenee, Jay Lava Beibe, Sauti Isu, Hon Muthengi Ndagara and Kasupuu Kamutei, presenting ‘Kenya Twi Mbee’.
Gospel Powerhouses was a collaboration of Justus Myello, Winnie Mutanu, Ann Kathy, Stephen Kasolo,
Priscilla Nina, Stellar Mengele, Dr Mbuvi Aamp: ‘Ndeke Ya Muthanga’.
Cultural Masterpieces were by Itheke and Mukanda traditional dance ensembles, and a Choral Feature, ‘Nguvu Ya Mashujaa’, by Kitui Teachers Training College Choir.
Two exclusive tribute singles were performed in honour of Rt Hon Raila Odinga: ‘Raila Hoyee,’ by Sammy Dee and The Cluster Dancers, and a moving country rendition of Harry Belafonte’s ‘Jamaica Farewell’ by Pharry K.
PPMC director Dr Donald Otoyo said after the shows, “Today, we are proud to affirm that culture remains the heartbeat of our national identity.”
The crowd was moved to tears when the performers boldly recreated Raila in dance and poetry.
In the end, music soothed aching souls as new artistes were born, a mandate PPMC curates with precision.
