Homa Bay Set to Host National Madaraka Day Celebrations at Raila Odinga Stadium

Homa Bay County is preparing to host the national Madaraka Day celebrations on June 1st, marking the first time the county will host the annual event.

The announcement was made by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, confirming that President William Ruto will preside over the celebrations at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay Town. The decision to hold the event in Homa Bay is tied to this year's theme, "Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs." The county's location along Lake Victoria, holding the largest portion of the Kenyan side of the lake, positions it as a key area for developing blue economy activities.

Officials anticipate that the celebrations will provide a significant opportunity for residents to leverage business prospects and improve their livelihoods. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga expresses her appreciation to President Ruto for selecting the county as the host. Wanga highlights the potential benefits of the event, particularly in utilizing the resources of Lake Victoria. She notes the revitalization of the Homa Bay Pier, which has been inactive for decades, to facilitate the transportation of goods and services and stimulate the local economy.

During his visit, President Ruto is scheduled to commission the ongoing construction of Homa Bay Pier, officially open the expanded Kabunde Airstrip, and inaugurate the new Homa Bay County Government headquarters, along with the Homa Bay fish market in Homa Bay Town.
Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma has urged the technical team working on the stadium to expedite infrastructural improvements.

Kaluma assures residents of the necessary support to ensure timely completion, and encourages the community to prepare for the economic opportunities that come with hosting the national celebrations.