Historic Madaraka Day: Homa Bay's Blue Economy Moment

Homa Bay Hosts Historic Madaraka Day Celebrations: Raila Odinga Addresses Thousands at Newly Commissioned Stadium Homa Bay County, Kenya, made history on June 1st, 2025, as it hosted the national Madaraka Day celebrations for the first time. The event, held at the newly commissioned 12,000-seater Raila Odinga Stadium, drew a massive crowd eager to hear Raila Odinga's address. The choice of Homa Bay County, a region central to Kenya's Blue Economy vision, was highlighted by President William Ruto, who asserted that the decision was a deliberate nod to the region's importance. "This is a great day for Homa Bay County," stated a local resident, visibly moved by the event. President Ruto further emphasized the significance, stating, "This is a testament that devolution works, and can work if it is empowered." The celebrations were marked by a festive atmosphere, with the crowd enthusiastically waving flags and chanting slogans. The event served as a powerful symbol of Kenya's progress and its commitment to harnessing its blue economy for sustainable growth.