The government has announced that preparations for this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, to be held at the newly named Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County, are nearing completion.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Raymond Omollo confirmed that extensive upgrades at the stadium are over 70% complete, including the construction of public terraces and the rehabilitation of the pavilion. A designated parking area is 60% complete, while the perimeter wall is 80% done.
The stadium’s upgrades are being overseen by the State Department for Sports and Sports Kenya. In addition, major infrastructure projects are underway to support the event. These include:
- Roadworks:
- KeNHA is upgrading the 1.2km Homa Bay pier–stadium road and a 2km access road to the county headquarters in Arujo.
- KeRRA is grading the 11km Wahambla–Imbo road and the 12km Ruga–Lala road.
- KURA is repairing and upgrading 10.8km of access roads around the venue.
- The State Department for Roads is implementing over 35km of road construction to improve movement across the county.
- Other Facilities:
The county commissioner’s residence, which will host the official State Garden Party, is under rehabilitation with more than 75% of works completed. This includes renovations to the main house, staff quarters, gazebo, ablution blocks, and supporting infrastructure. - Air Travel:
The Kabunde Airstrip is also being refurbished. Runway fencing is complete, and the runway extension is 70% done, according to Omollo.
CS Omollo praised the Homa Bay county government and local residents for their cooperation in ensuring the success of the national event, which honors Kenya’s freedom fighters and celebrates the country’s unity and progress.
This year’s Madaraka Day falls on Sunday, June 1, meaning Monday, June 2, will be observed as a public holiday.