The Raila Odinga Homa Bay Stadium was transformed into a lively showcase of colour, culture, and national pride during this year’s official Madaraka Day celebrations.

From the early morning hours, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. As thousands watched the sun cast its glow into the stadium, the atmosphere quickly built into a festive crescendo, setting the tone for a day rich in heritage and entertainment.

MCs Bonny Musambi and Beatrice Gatonye, supported by DJ Naz, maintained high energy throughout the event, seamlessly guiding the crowd through a lineup of performances that celebrated both tradition and modern artistry.

The event opened with a coordinated routine by 500 students from 11 local schools. Dressed in white T-shirts, shorts, gloves, and shoes, the young performers delivered a striking display of poetry and dance.

Their choreographed movements depicted life in the region—fishing scenes, the MV Homa Bay ferry, and symbolic nods to the government’s development agenda.

Their rendition of Daudi Kabaka’s classic Harambee song brought a wave of emotion and nostalgia that resonated with the crowd.

Traditional music and dance followed, with the haunting strains of the Orutu, a traditional Luo string instrument, echoing across the stadium.

Dancers in vibrant costumes and ostrich-feather headpieces captivated the audience with spirited, rhythmic performances that celebrated the cultural heartbeat of the region.

The day’s program, curated by the Permanent Presidential Music Commission, featured a dynamic fusion of generational talent. Afro Benga legends shared the stage with modern artistes in a lineup that celebrated Kenya’s evolving musical identity.

Notable acts included Thiring’ing’i, Kaka Talanta, and the Sarakasi Dancers, who had spent three weeks auditioning local performers, many of whom made their debut on the national stage to enthusiastic applause.

The main stage also featured celebrated performers such as Onyi Papa J, Katweps Anto, Engineer Madanji Perimeter, Ikulu Band, Tabby Odanga, Milkah Omondi, Lynder Matiko, Wood Fibi, and Awiko. A collective performance of specially composed patriotic songs stood out as one of the day’s highlights.

In a memorable presentation, Christine Otieno, Phoebe Moses Aphy, Janet Oudu, Fred Omondi, Akowa Irene, MC Paul Otieno Oleche, Linda Owino, Kevin Gombe, and Wuod Fibi performed Washindi, while Tuwajibike was powerfully rendered by Awicko Wuod Nyapala, Lizzy Seme, Lynder Matiko, Eddah Ayon, Sherine Pammy, Omondi CEO, Kapweps Anto, and Abungu System.

Another standout was Kenya Mor Tee, performed by a robust ensemble including Othicho Jasuba, Aroji Chogo, Papa T, Freddy Jakadongo, Abongo Jakabwana, Achieng Nyarongo, Oluoch Digital, Kaka Talanta, and Linda Owino.

The Suba Cultural Dancers marveled with Irirandi Rya Basuba, a heartfelt celebration of local identity and heritage that left the crowd standing in ovation.