Vihiga County is set to host this year’s 61st Labour Day celebrations on May 1, 2026, in a historic fete to be held outside Nairobi for the first time.
The celebrations will take place at Friends Chavakali High School, while a related launch event is expected to be held at Mbale Boys High School.
Preparations were at an advanced stage, with both national and county officials expressing optimism on the county’s readiness to host the landmark event.
The development follows a courtesy call by officials from the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), led by National Chairman Joel Chebii, alongside representatives from State departments . The team met Vihiga Governor Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo to assess preparedness for the national event.
The team inspected several potential venues across the county before settling on the two venues.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Ottichilo lauded the President for choosing Vihiga to host the celebrations, noting that the decision underscores the growing role of counties in national development. He added that labour issues remain central to economic growth both at the county and national levels.
Vihiga County Commissioner Peter Maina assured residents and stakeholders of adequate security and seamless coordination during the event.
“We have put in place comprehensive security and logistical arrangements to ensure a successful and incident-free Labour Day celebration. Residents and visitors are assured of their safety as we host this historic national event,” said County Commissioner Maina.
The celebrations are expected to attract national leaders, workers’ representatives, and members of the public from across the country.
by Rose Wasike
