Preparations for the 2025 Madaraka Day Celebrations on 1st June 2025 are progressing steadily, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has said.
This year’s celebrations, which will be held in Homa Bay County, are themed “Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs” in line with Kenya’s strategic focus on unlocking the potential of our aquatic resources for sustainable development and economic transformation.
Consistent with the rotational model of hosting national celebrations, the Government is implementing accelerated projects in Homa Bay County as part of the bonus development package for host counties.
This approach, PS Omollo says, ensures that each host county enjoys long-term socio-economic gains beyond the celebrations.
The Raila Odinga Stadium, the official venue for the celebrations, is currently undergoing extensive upgrades under the collaboration between the State Department for Sports.
Construction of public terraces and rehabilitation of the pavilion are over 70 percent done. The construction of designated parking areas and the extension of perimeter walls are 60 percent and 80 percent complete respectively,” PS Omollo, who is also the Chairperson of the National Celebrations Steering Committee, says.
The State Department for Roads, through its agencies, is on the ground implementing major road works to ensure seamless accessibility and movement across the county. More than 35 kilometers of roads are under construction or rehabilitation to support the celebration. KeNHA has already commenced the upgrading of the 1.2-kilometer Homa Bay Pier–Stadium road and the 2-kilometer access road leading to the County Government Headquarters in Arujo. KeRRA has also prioritized grading works along the 11-kilometer Wahambla–Imbo Road and the 12-kilometer Ruga–Lala Road. Concurrently, KURA is overseeing the repair and upgrading of 10.8 kilometers of access roads around the venue.
Additionally, the County Commissioner’s Residence, which will host the official State Garden Party, is undergoing rehabilitation. Works on the main house, staff quarters, ablution facilities, gazebo, as well as external infrastructure including perimeter walls, water tanks, pavements, and internal roads are more than 75 percent complete.
The government, through the State Department for Transport and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), is also refurbishing the Kabunde Airstrip. The repair of fencing at both ends of the runway has been completed while the extension of the runway is 70 percent complete.
With technical support from the State Department for Public Works, the refurbishment of the passenger terminal building is ongoing, concurrently with the construction of a new apron and taxiways.
“Our primary target is to deliver a successful and memorable Madaraka Day celebration that not only honors our freedom fighters but also reflects the unity and progress of our nation. We appreciate the support and cooperation of the County Government of Homa Bay and the local community as we prepare to mark this national event.”
