Today Kenya celebrated its 62nd Madaraka Day led by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces His Excellency Dr. William Ruto, at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County.
The ceremony held every 1st June is important to Kenya as it marks the historic day when the country gained internal self-rule from British colonial rule.
The President was received by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri, who also accompanied him to inspect a guard of honour mounted by the 7th Battalion, The Kenya Rifles (7KR). This was followed by a match past by various security agencies and a fly by involving various Kenya Air Force aircrafts.
This year’s theme; “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Growth” underscores the nation’s commitment to leveraging its aquatic resources for economic development, environmental conservation, and job creation. Homa Bay County, strategically located along Lake Victoria, was chosen to host this year’s celebrations, highlighting the region’s pivotal role in fostering growth in the blue economy sector.
In his address, the Commander-in-Chief paid tribute to the brave men and women who made tremendous sacrifices in the pursuit of freedom for the nation. He commended their enduring struggle and ultimate victory, noting their role in shaping the nation’s path.
“We honour the heroes whose courage lit the path to our independence,” he stated.
The President emphasized that this day not only signifies the moment Kenya achieved internal self-rule but also symbolizes the enduring ideals that inspired the freedom fighters and still continue to ignite ambition in every citizen today.
He stressed that Kenya’s ability to govern itself was no historical accident, but a confirmation of the lasting values upheld by past generations. The Head of State also underlined the dignity of labour, saying, “Madaraka Day reminds us that no job is too small. Every occupation adds to the development of our great nation.”
The day brought together local and foreign dignitaries most notably Her Excellency Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar, President of the Republic of Slovenia, who was in Homa Bay as a show of solidarity to celebrate the important day.
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