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Kenya Holds 2026 Madaraka Day Celebrations in Wajir for First Time
Kenya marks Madaraka Day in Wajir for the first time since 1963, with President William Ruto presiding over events focused on education and skills.
Jun 1, 3:04 AM·1m read1 source
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M. on 1 June 2026 to lead the national Madaraka Day celebrations. The 10,000-seat venue hosted thousands of residents, leaders, diplomats and invited guests for the first national event of its kind in Kenya's North Eastern region since the country attained self-rule in 1963.
The 2026 theme, "Education, Skills and the Future," centers on learning, innovation, technical training and skills development. Military displays, cultural performances and addresses from national leaders preceded President Ruto's scheduled speech on government priorities for education, job creation and economic growth.
Months of preparations upgraded roads, installed street lighting, expanded water connectivity and renovated Wajir International Airport.
On the preceding Sunday, President Ruto commissioned electricity connectivity programmes and other infrastructure projects in the county. The government states that the investments form part of a broader strategy to unlock the economic potential of arid and semi-arid counties. Wajir's selection as host is presented as recognition of the region's growing role in national development.
AllAfrica reported the details from Capital FM correspondents on site in Wajir.
