Homa Bay, Kenya – President William Ruto announced on Friday that Homa Bay County has been selected to host Kenya’s 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, a historic first for the region. This year's national event will uniquely center around the theme of the Blue Economy, strategically chosen to reflect and promote Homa Bay's significant role in fisheries, aquaculture, and the broader Lake Victoria ecosystem.

Spotlight on Regional Development

President Ruto emphasized that the government deliberately chose Homa Bay to showcase the economic potential of the Lake Victoria basin and to uplift local communities through targeted development initiatives. In preparation for the landmark event, the president outlined several major infrastructure upgrades underway in Homa Bay. These include extensive renovations at the Raila Odinga Stadium, which will be a key venue for the celebrations, and significant improvements to road access and connectivity within the county.

Economic Boost and Devolution Milestone

Government officials and local leaders have highlighted that hosting Madaraka Day, coupled with the focus on the Blue Economy, is anticipated to provide a substantial boost to tourism and the fish farming industry in the area. This, in turn, is expected to yield tangible economic benefits for local residents and businesses. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga hailed the decision to host the national celebrations in the county as a "devolution milestone," underscoring its importance in recognizing and fostering development in regions outside the capital.