NAIROBI, Kenya— The sun was barely up in Homa Bay on Sunday when thousands of Kenyans began gathering outside the newly named Raila Odinga Stadium, eager to be part of the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations.
Hours later, after waiting in long queues and facing temporary restrictions, they were finally ushered in—ushering in a wave of national pride, dance, and dazzling color.
The crowds, initially held back to allow official programs to roll out smoothly, were eventually allowed into the already packed stadium. By Saturday night, the venue was full to the brim, yet the spirit of Madaraka—Kenya’s milestone toward self-governance from British rule on June 1, 1963—kept enthusiasm high.
And once the gates opened, the atmosphere flipped from tense to electric. Cheers erupted, and a sea of waving flags, vibrant outfits, and buzzing vuvuzelas filled the air.
Culture, Parades, and Presidential Moves
Guests were welcomed by spirited military parades and traditional performances that showcased Kenya’s rich cultural fabric.
Then came the moment that truly stole the show—President William Ruto and Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar hitting the dance floor (or rather, the national dais) in a brief but memorable groove session that had the crowd laughing and cheering in unison.
Their dance moves, though clearly unrehearsed, won over the audience and added a human touch to an event often dominated by stiff protocol.
Kenya’s youngest patriots also had their moment. School children treated attendees to energetic performances packed with patriotic songs and choreographed dances that celebrated national identity and unity. Every routine was met with roaring applause, turning the day into a festival of youth, hope, and heritage.
Development First, Festivities Next
President Ruto arrived in Nyanza days earlier to flag off several major projects designed to spur regional equity and local economic growth.
Among them: the tarmacking of the 40-kilometre Marindi-Oria Bridge Road, the commissioning of 901 affordable housing units in Kisumu through the LAPFUND Makasembo initiative, and the Lake Victoria Point project in Kirembe.
The president also led the groundbreaking for the Gor Mahia Ring Road in Magina and announced a major upgrade of the long-neglected Homa Bay pier—an economic artery that, once revived, could transform trade and transport in the lake region.
Despite early logistical hiccups and recent controversies—including the assault of several journalists by security officers—the Madaraka Day celebrations ultimately delivered what Kenyans came for: a show of unity, progress, and pride.
As the event continued well into the afternoon, one thing was clear—while the path to self-rule began 62 years ago, the journey of building a stronger, more inclusive Kenya is far from over.
