By Jeff Kizzilah/Digital EditorΒ
Β Government Spokesperson Hon. Isaac Mwaura has hailed the hosting of the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County as a historic milestone that reflects Kenya’s commitment to inclusivity, equality, and national cohesion.
Speaking ahead of the national celebrations, Mwaura noted that for the first time since independence, Wajir County will host the country’s most significant national holiday, placing the North Eastern region at the center of Kenya’s development and unity agenda.
“This year’s Madaraka Day celebrations are more than a national event; they are a powerful statement that every region and every Kenyan matters. Wajir’s hosting of this occasion demonstrates the government’s determination to ensure no community is left behind,” said Mwaura.
The celebrations come at a time when Kenya continues to maintain economic stability despite global challenges, including disruptions linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis. According to Mwaura, this stability has enabled the government to continue investing in transformative development projects and initiatives that promote national unity.
Celebrating Unity and Equal Opportunity
The government says this year’s celebrations embody the values that inspired Kenya’s struggle for self-rule, including patriotism, equal opportunity, social cohesion, and inclusive development. By taking the celebrations to Wajir, the government seeks to reaffirm that all regions have a place in Kenya’s national story regardless of historical marginalization or geographical location.
Wajir Undergoes Major Transformation
Ahead of the celebrations, Wajir Town has undergone a remarkable facelift. A modern stadium with a seating capacity exceeding 10,000 people has been constructed to host the main event, while key roads have been upgraded to bitumen standards to improve accessibility and mobility.
Modern street lighting has enhanced security and expanded business activity into evening hours, while the completion of a mini State Lodge and supporting facilities is expected to strengthen government presence and position Wajir as a future host of national events.Development Projects Accelerating Growth
Mwaura highlighted that nearly 30 major development projects are currently underway across Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera counties. These include seven modern markets to support trade and livestock businesses, six student centers in Garissa to empower youth, and five modern libraries aimed at improving access to education and digital learning resources.
The projects are expected to boost economic activity, create opportunities for local communities, and strengthen access to public services.
Affordable Housing Delivering Opportunities
The government’s affordable housing programme continues to expand across the region, with five major housing projects set to deliver 2,148 housing units. Beyond providing decent and affordable homes, the programme is generating employment opportunities for hundreds of young people while stimulating local businesses and supply chains.
Infrastructure and Water Investments to Transform Lives
Road construction projects across the North Eastern region are expected to improve connectivity, strengthen trade, enhance security operations, and increase access to healthcare, education, and government services.
At the same time, significant investments in water supply and sewerage systems are addressing long-standing challenges related to water scarcity and sanitation, improving public health and living standards for thousands of residents.
Education Takes Center Stage
This year’s Madaraka Day celebrations are being held under the theme “Education, Skills and the Future,” reflecting the government’s commitment to empowering young people through education and skills development.
More than 1,000 classrooms and supporting educational facilities are currently under development across the region, including laboratories, dormitories, and digital learning centers. The government is also expanding technical and vocational training programmes to equip youth with skills required in a rapidly evolving economy.
Wagberi Expo Showcases Innovation
A major attraction of the celebrations is the ongoing exhibition at Wagberi Primary School, where public institutions, innovators, learning institutions, and private sector players are showcasing advancements in education, technology, digital transformation, and skills training.
The exhibition is providing students and residents with valuable exposure to emerging technologies and future career opportunities while highlighting Kenya’s vision of building a globally competitive workforce.
Call for Unity and Nation Building
As the country marks 63 years of self-rule, the government has called upon all Kenyans to embrace patriotism, peaceful coexistence, and active participation in nation building.
Mwaura emphasized that the development projects underway in North Eastern Kenya are part of a broader strategy to ensure balanced national growth and shared prosperity.
“While we honor the sacrifices of our freedom fighters, we must also focus on building a future founded on innovation, opportunity, and unity. Together, we can create a stronger and more prosperous Kenya for generations to come,” he said.
