Wajir to Host 2026 Madaraka Day Celebrations

Wajir County will host the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations, marking the first time the event will be held in the region. 

President William Ruto confirmed the move during a visit to the area, announcing that Sh900 million would be invested in the construction of a modern stadium in Wajir Town to serve as the venue. The facility will accommodate 10,000 spectators.

This investment is part of the government’s efforts to promote balanced development across the country. The decision to hold the national event in Wajir is seen as a significant step towards recognising and including regions that have historically received less attention in terms of infrastructure and national celebrations.

Since 2016, there has been a shift towards decentralising major national holidays. Previous Madaraka Day celebrations have taken place outside Nairobi, with counties such as Nakuru, Machakos, Nyeri, and Kisumu hosting the event. Wajir’s selection continues this trend, marking a milestone for Kenya’s northern frontier.

Alongside the stadium project, President Ruto also launched the final phase of the NYOTA Business Start-Up Capital programme in Wajir, distributing Sh63 million to 2,520 local beneficiaries. This initiative, along with the stadium, forms part of a broader strategy to boost infrastructure and economic growth in underserved regions.

Madaraka Day, celebrated every 1 June, commemorates Kenya's achievement of internal self-rule in 1963. The event features speeches, cultural performances, and displays by the armed forces.