By Joshua Otieno | May 31, 2026
WAJIR, KENYA — For the first time in Kenya’s history, Wajir County is preparing to host the country’s 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations, marking a historic milestone for the North Eastern region and signaling what the Government describes as a new era of inclusion, national unity, and equal development.
Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said the decision to hold the national celebrations in Wajir demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring every region feels recognized and included in Kenya’s national progress.
“This is a historic moment for Wajir and the entire North Eastern region. It reflects our commitment to inclusion, equality, and national cohesion,” said Mwaura.
He added that despite global economic challenges, including disruptions linked to the Middle East crisis, Kenya’s economy has remained stable, allowing continued investments in national development.
“Even amid global economic challenges, Kenya has remained resilient and focused on investing in development and national unity,” Mwaura stated.
Thousands of residents, leaders, diplomats, and visitors are expected to attend the celebrations, placing Wajir at the center of one of Kenya’s most important national events.
According to the Government, this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations go beyond the annual ceremony and instead reflect a renewed commitment to the ideals that inspired Kenya’s struggle for self-rule, including patriotism, equal opportunity, and inclusive development.
Officials say taking the celebrations to Wajir County is a deliberate move aimed at ensuring historically marginalized regions are fully integrated into Kenya’s national development agenda.
“No region of Kenya should feel excluded because of geographical location or historical marginalization,” Mwaura emphasized.
Ahead of the national event, Wajir Town has undergone a major transformation through large-scale infrastructure upgrades.
At the center of the preparations is a newly constructed modern stadium with a seating capacity of more than 10,000 people, which is expected to host the main Madaraka Day celebrations.
Several roads linking the stadium to residential estates, government offices, and public facilities have been upgraded to bitumen standards to improve movement and accessibility across the town.
Modern street lighting has also been installed to improve security and extend business operations into the evening hours.
Additionally, the Government has completed the construction of a mini State Lodge and supporting facilities expected to strengthen Government presence and improve Wajir’s capacity to host future national functions.
The Government further says the celebrations form part of a broader development agenda currently underway across the North Eastern region.
Nearly 30 major development projects are ongoing across Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera counties, targeting economic growth, public service delivery, and improved living standards.
Among the projects are seven modern markets designed to support traders, livestock businesses, and cross-border commerce.
In Garissa County, six student centers are under construction to provide mentorship, safe learning spaces, and educational support for young people.
At the same time, five modern libraries are being established to improve access to books, digital learning materials, and research opportunities.
The Government’s Affordable Housing Programme is also expanding in the region, with five housing projects expected to deliver 2,148 housing units upon completion.
According to Mwaura, the housing projects are already creating employment opportunities for local youth.
“The housing programme is not only providing decent homes but also creating jobs and economic opportunities for local communities,” he said.
Authorities also highlighted major investments in roads, water supply, and sewerage systems, aimed at improving transport, sanitation, and access to essential services.
Mwaura noted that improved roads are expected to boost trade, strengthen security operations, and ease access to schools, hospitals, and government services.
This year’s Madaraka Day celebrations are being held under the theme “Education, Skills and the Future,” emphasizing the Government’s focus on equipping young people with practical skills for a changing economy.
According to officials, more than 1,000 classrooms and educational infrastructure projects are currently under development across the region, including laboratories, dormitories, and digital learning facilities.
The Government says investments in technical and vocational training are also being strengthened to improve employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people.
One of the major highlights of this year’s celebrations is the ongoing Wagberi Expo at Wagberi Primary School, where Government agencies, private institutions, and innovators are showcasing achievements in education, skills training, and digital transformation.
Officials say the exhibition reflects Kenya’s long-term vision of building a skilled and competitive workforce.
As Kenya marks 63 years since attaining self-rule, citizens are being urged to embrace patriotism, peaceful coexistence, and active participation in nation-building.
“The future of Kenya depends on our unity, hard work, and collective responsibility as citizens,” Mwaura said.
The Government maintains that ongoing investments in the North Eastern region reflect its commitment to ensuring that no part of the country is left behind in Kenya’s development journey.
