This year’s Madaraka Day celebrations will focus on the blue economy and maritime affairs, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has said, even as he announced major progress in preparations for the success of this important day in Kenya’s calendar.

While leading the National Celebrations Steering Committee during an inspection of the preparations in Homa Bay on Thursday, PS Omollo said locals will also have the opportunity to learn from a three-day conference ahead of the June 1 celebrations.

Homa Bay County will host the 62nd Madaraka Day as the country marks the attainment of self-rule from British colonial powers in 1963.

“The forum will engage lake basin communities, beach management units, development partners, and the business community,” he said.

According to Dr Omollo, the county will host a three-day conference on the blue economy and maritime affairs, culminating in the national holiday celebrations, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki set to open the first day of the summit.

He added that the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, will officiate the second day of the conference, while President William Ruto will preside over the final day of the summit.

Dr Omollo also noted that preparations for the celebrations are at an advanced stage, including the upgrading of Raila Odinga Stadium to a 12,000-seater capacity.

Other projects nearing completion include the upgrading of Kabunde Airstrip by the Kenya Airports Authority, with ongoing work on the apron and the upcoming terminal building.

Street lighting installations by Kenya Power and improvements to water access at key venues and residential areas by the county government are also almost complete and will be ready for use during and after the event.

“Additional infrastructural upgrades are underway across Homa Bay. KURA and KeRRA are preparing to commence works on two major roads leading into the town, with contracts expected to be finalised by the end of the week,” he stated.

Dr Omollo praised the collaboration between national agencies and the county government in executing the plans to ensure the success of the celebrations.

“The most strategic parts of what Kenya is doing will be ready ahead of Madaraka Day,” he said.

He was joined by senior government officials, including the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya; Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga; PS Umi Bashir (Culture); PS Elijah Mwangi (Sports); and PS Betsy Njagi (Blue Economy).

Other leaders who accompanied the PS included Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura; Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy Dennis Itumbi; the Regional Commissioner, Flora Mworoa; and the County Commissioner, Moses Lilan.

The PS urged Homa Bay residents and “everyone across the country to be part of these historic celebrations.”