County government officials and residents of Kajiado North joined the rest of the country in marking the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations held at the Ngong Stadium on Monday.
The celebrations featured a parade by the National Police Service, followed by entertainment from various groups, including a judo team, traditional dancers from Ngong Township Dance Crew, a band performance by Kenvic School, and a modern dance presentation by Global Hope Dance Crew.
Kajiado North Deputy County Commissioner (DCC), Yusuf Mohammed, who read President William Ruto’s speech, urged residents, government officials, and security agencies to work together to prevent challenges experienced elsewhere, including school arson incidents and child abductions, from affecting the sub-county.
“Kajiado North often mirrors trends experienced in other parts of the country, and an example is events such as demonstrations occurring in CBD, which tend to find their way into Kajiado North,” he noted.
Kajiado North Sub-county Administrator Samuel Muchiri, who represented Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, highlighted teenage pregnancy as a growing concern in the sub-county and called for a meeting of county government officials to develop strategies to address the challenge and support affected learners to continue their education.
Muchiri also urged political aspirants to uphold peace and harmony, even as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
Sub-county Administration Police Commander, Okoth Obiero, emphasized the role of parents in nurturing and guiding their children.
“Dear parents, we are the first teachers of our children. We should teach them what is right and wrong, be aware of the company they keep, and advise them appropriately,” said Obiero.
Kenya Forest Service officer Beatrice Mwaka encouraged residents to work closely with chiefs and village administrators to obtain tree seedlings from KFS offices and participate in environmental conservation through tree planting.
Sub-county Police Commander, Felix Muli, assured residents of continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the public to enhance security and protect businesses and livelihoods.
Madaraka Day is celebrated annually on June 1 to commemorate Kenya’s attainment of internal self-rule from British colonial administration in 1963. This year’s celebrations were held under the theme: “Education, Skills, and the Future.”
This year’s national celebration of Madaraka Day was for the first time held in Northern Kenya in Wajir County and officiated by President Dr. William Ruto.
By Newtone Mbuka and Peter Muteti
