Thousands of Kenyans thronged Wajir Stadium for Madaraka Day celebrations as a wave of excitement, pride, and celebration swept across Wajir County.
Long before sunrise, thousands of residents had already made their way to the newly constructed Wajir Stadium, the venue for this year’s 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations.
By 4 am, streams of people were arriving from different parts of the county and neighbouring areas, eager to witness a moment many described as long overdue.
The sense of pride among residents was unmistakable. Many viewed the hosting of the national event as a recognition of the region’s place in Kenya’s development journey and a powerful symbol of inclusion.
“This is a region that has endured years of silent marginalisation under successive governments. Today, we feel that the political goodwill has finally been extended to Northern Kenya under the leadership of President William Ruto, and the communities here deeply appreciate this gesture,” said Hussen Mohamed, 60, an elder seated in the stadium.
For some, the excitement was too great to wait until dawn. Hundreds spent the night inside and around the stadium, entertained by local artists and cultural performers who kept the celebratory mood alive through music, dance and traditional performances.
The atmosphere was festive, with families, youth and elders soaking in the significance of the occasion.
“As you can see, the mood both inside the stadium and in the streets of Wajir is truly something special. Personally, I am filled with excitement, hope and anticipation. Having this national celebration held in our county is something that only existed in dreams. I thank God I have lived to witness this momentous occasion,” said Ambia Hussein, 60 a resident of Wajir.
“This is a day we never imagined would come to Wajir. We feel seen, recognised, and part of the national story,” said Omar Saman, a youth.
“The colourful crowds, patriotic songs and jubilant atmosphere you see reflect a community celebrating not only Madaraka Day, but also a moment of national recognition that many hope will usher in greater opportunities and development for the region,” he added.
The event is particularly significant as it marks the first time a national celebration of this magnitude is being held in Kenya’s Northeastern region since the country attained independence.
The occasion has transformed Wajir into a focal point of national attention, drawing dignitaries, government officials and visitors from across the country.
President William Ruto is expected to preside over the celebrations, which are set to take place at the modern Wajir Stadium, a key piece of infrastructure developed ahead of the historic event.
Organisers have scheduled the ceremony to begin as early as 8 am, a departure from the traditional timetable for national celebrations.
Officials say the decision was informed by Wajir’s harsh climatic conditions, which often see temperatures rise significantly later in the day.
The early programme will also accommodate the religious practices of the predominantly Muslim population, allowing residents to conclude the event in good time for afternoon prayers.
