Homa Bay County is enjoying a surge in economic activity and development thanks to hosting this year’s 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations.

From infrastructure upgrades to booming small businesses, residents say preparations for the event have brought new life to the county.

Traders, transporters, and hoteliers are among those reaping the benefits.

Cate Akelo, who runs a small hotel near the newly renovated Raila Odinga Stadium, says business has significantly improved in the past few weeks.

“Business has been really good. There have been so many people coming into town, and the roads are now better. I expect more sales because there will be many visitors,” said Ogolla.

“Before, we didn’t sell much because the roads were narrow and hard to access. Now, I expect business to keep growing.”

Transport operators including boda boda rider Maurice Oketch are also cashing in on the event.

“We expect a lot today. Right now I have come to the depot to pick sodas because hotels are overwhelmed,” he said.

“This is the first time we are hosting such a big event, and the opportunities are everywhere.”

In the weeks leading up to the celebrations, the government launched several major projects in the county.

They included renovation of the 12,000-seater Raila Odinga Stadium, which hosts the main event.

Expansion and tarmacking of key roads in and around Homa Bay Town to improve traffic flow.

Upgrading of local water infrastructure, in line with this year’s theme, ‘Our Water, Our Wealth: Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Economic Development’.

Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Atieno says the event has also given Homa Bay a platform to showcase its tourism and economic potential, particularly in fisheries, tourism, and water transport sectors that are central to the Blue Economy.

On the eve of Madaraka Day, the Raila Odinga Stadium was already filled to capacity, with thousands flocking in from across the region.

This year’s celebration is expected to be graced by President William Ruto and visiting Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar, as well as ODM leader Raila Odinga.