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Events giving host counties major boosts

Residents of Homa Bay Town during the 62 Madaraka Day celebration.

Photo credit: Alex Odhiambo| Nation Media Group

The decision to host national celebrations—Madaraka Day, Jamhuri Day and Mashujaa Day—in different counties rather than exclusively in Nairobi, is a commendable and visionary one. It is a powerful tool for national inclusion, equitable development and regional empowerment.

The hosting of Madaraka Day celebrations in Homa Bay County on Sunday exemplifies how this strategy is paying off. Once perceived as a remote and underserved area, Homa Bay has now received national attention, attracting infrastructural investments and media coverage. Roads have been rehabilitated, the stadium upgraded, the hospitality sector invigorated and conversations on the county’s economic potential sparked.

President William Ruto also launched major projects in the county, including expansion of the Homa Bay Pier, upgrade of Tom Mboya University, and the strengthening of healthcare and affordable housing projects.

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Hosting these celebrations in other counties affirms that every one of them matters, and that patriotism and national pride are not confined to the capital. It brings government leaders closer to the grassroots and gives citizens from far-flung areas a sense of inclusion and visibility in the national story.

Moreover, this initiative sends a strong signal to both local and foreign investors: Kenya’s counties are open for business. When infrastructure is improved and attention focused on places like Homa Bay, Kisii or Embu, it piques investor interest. Investors follow infrastructure, visibility, and political goodwill.

This model has already shown results in counties that have hosted national events. Under President Uhuru Kenyatta, Meru County, which hosted Mashujaa Day in 2016, received significant upgrades to Kinoru Stadium and surrounding road networks. Kisumu County, which hosted Madaraka Day in 2021, benefited from the revival of Kisumu Port, among other developments.

In a country where marginalisation has bred inequality and discontent, this model serves as a practical bridge toward devolution in spirit and practice. It is not merely about hosting a parade; it is about redistributing opportunity, fostering unity, and reshaping perceptions of what each county can offer.

Samfelix Randa