President William Ruto on Saturday, June 1, led Kenyans in commemorating Madaraka Day at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County. The national celebrations, held under the theme “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for National Prosperity,” focused on unlocking the economic potential of Kenya’s water resources, particularly Lake Victoria.
Madaraka Day marks a significant milestone in the nation’s history Kenya’s attainment of internal self-rule from British colonial rule on June 1, 1963. This year’s event drew top government officials, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Parliament, Governors, and members of the diplomatic corps. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was also present, underscoring the political unity behind the celebration.
In a show of strengthening diplomatic relations, President Nataša Pirc Musar of Slovenia graced the event as the chief guest. Her three-day state visit highlights the growing international ties between Kenya and European nations, with cooperation in trade, technology, and environmental conservation on the agenda.
Homa Bay was a hive of activity in the run-up to the celebration. President Ruto, who arrived in the region earlier in the week, launched several key infrastructure projects aimed at spurring regional development and promoting inclusivity. Among the flagship initiatives were the tarmacking of the 40-kilometre Marindi–Oria Bridge Road, the commissioning of 901 affordable housing units in Kisumu under the LAPFUND Makasembo project, and the Lake Victoria Point project in Kirembe.
Additionally, the President broke ground for the construction of the Gor Mahia Ring Road in Magina and unveiled plans to revitalize the long-neglected Homa Bay pier. These efforts are part of a broader government strategy to harness the potential of the blue economy to create jobs, enhance trade, and improve livelihoods in lakefront communities.
As military parades, cultural performances, and reflective speeches filled the day, the message was clear: Kenya is charting a path toward inclusive growth, with Homa Bay symbolizing the country’s commitment to equitable development and national unity.
