WAJIR, Kenya — Preparations for the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir have reached 84pc completion, with the government expressing confidence that all key works will be finalised ahead of the national event scheduled for June 1.
Raymond Omollo, the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, announced the progress after inspecting ongoing works and facilities being prepared for the celebrations in Wajir County.
Omollo said the remaining critical works were expected to be substantially completed between May 20 and May 25, allowing adequate time for testing, rehearsals, and coordination activities before the event.
“We are pleased with the progress made so far. The preparations currently stand at 84 percent, and we expect that by between the 20th and 25th of this month, most of the key works will have been completed,” said Omollo.
The inspection tour covered the main celebration venue, infrastructure upgrades, parade rehearsal grounds, and other supporting facilities intended to host dignitaries and members of the public during the national celebrations.
Government agencies have already begun coordination exercises and parade rehearsals involving security personnel and ceremonial teams expected to participate during the event.
As part of the pre-celebration activities, the government will hold a thematic week between May 25 and May 31 at Wagberi Primary School. The programme will focus on education, skills, and the future, in line with the theme of this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations.
Preparations are also ongoing at the official residence where President William Ruto is expected to host a State luncheon for invited guests.
Dr. Omollo said hosting the national celebrations in Wajir demonstrates the government’s commitment to inclusive development, national cohesion, and equitable distribution of national events across different regions of the country.
He also urged attendees to observe the official programme schedule, noting that the timetable had been structured to accommodate midday prayers observed in the region.
“We encourage all attendees to be seated by 8:00 a.m. as the celebrations will begin promptly to ensure smooth flow of the programme,” he stated.
The government has invited Kenyans from across the country to participate in this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir.
Dr. Omollo was accompanied during the inspection by Ummi Bashir, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, and officials from various ministries, departments, and agencies involved in coordinating the national event.
Madaraka Day, celebrated annually on June 1, commemorates Kenya’s attainment of internal self-rule in 1963 and remains one of the country’s key national holidays.
