Wajir County came alive with pomp, colour and patriotic fervour as thousands of Kenyans gathered at the newly built Wajir Stadium for the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations presided over by President William Ruto.
The stadium was packed to capacity as residents, leaders and invited guests turned out for the historic event, the first national celebration of its kind to be hosted in Kenya’s North Eastern region.
The celebrations began with elaborate military displays as units drawn from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service and other security agencies marched into the stadium in a synchronised parade before the President.
Spectators erupted into applause as the disciplined formations showcased precision drills, reflecting the professionalism and readiness of the country’s security forces.
The highlight of the ceremony was an impressive aerial display that lit up the skies above Wajir.
Military helicopters flew in formation over the stadium, executing meticulous manoeuvres that drew cheers from the crowd.
The fly-past added colour and excitement to the celebrations, with the aircraft soaring above the venue as the national colours were displayed across the sky.
The event marked a significant moment for Wajir county, placing the region at the centre of national celebrations and highlighting its growing importance in Kenya’s development agenda.
Throughout the ceremony, a festive atmosphere prevailed as Kenyans celebrated the country’s journey since attaining internal self-rule in 1963, with national unity, culture and patriotism taking centre stage.
