Preparations for the 2026 Madaraka Day national celebrations set for Wajir County is almost 84 per cent complete, with the Government expressing confidence that all critical works will be finalised ahead of the national event, scheduled for June 1, 2026.
The Principal Secretary (PS) for Internal Security and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, said the remaining works were expected to be substantially finalised between May 20 and May 25, to allow adequate time for testing, rehearsals and subsequent coordination activities.
Speaking after an inspection tour of key facilities and ongoing works in Wajir, Omollo said the Government was satisfied with the progress achieved so far.
“We are pleased with the progress made so far. The preparations currently stand at 84 per cent and we expect that by between the 20th and 25th of this month, most of the key works will have been completed,” said the PS.
The inspection covered the main celebration venue, infrastructure projects, parade rehearsals and supporting facilities being prepared for the national event.
Rehearsals and coordination activities are already underway, including parade training involving various security and ceremonial teams expected to participate during the celebrations.
As part of the preparations, the Government will hold a thematic week from May 25th to 31st at Jawhar Primary School focusing on education, skills and the future, in line with this year’s Madaraka Day theme.
Omollo said William Ruto will also host a State luncheon for invited guests during the celebrations.
He noted that hosting the national celebrations in Wajir demonstrates the Government’s commitment to inclusive development, national integration and equitable distribution of national events across the country.
Omolo urged members of the public to observe the official programme schedule, noting that the arrangements had taken into consideration midday prayers observed in the region.
“We encourage all attendees to be seated by 8:00 a.m. as the celebrations will begin promptly to ensure smooth flow of the programme,” he stated.
The Government has invited Kenyans from across the country to join residents of Wajir in marking this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations.
The PS was accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Culture and Heritage, Ummi Bashir, Ahmed Abdullahi and officials from various ministries, departments and agencies coordinating the event.
By Hamdi Buthul
