Ali mohamud Adan He is the Regional Coordinator, North Rift Region,Kenya National Commission on Human Rights. [email protected]
The rotation of national celebrations across Kenya represents one of the most meaningful efforts towards fostering national unity and inclusion. For decades, major national events were largely concentrated in Nairobi, leaving many parts of the country feeling distant from the centre of national life.
The decision to take these celebrations to different regions has changed that narrative and brought the spirit of nationhood closer to the people. This year, Wajir County had the honour of hosting the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations, becoming the first county in Northern Kenya to host a national event of such magnitude.
When the announcement was first made, many residents were skeptical. Having witnessed numerous promises in the past, some doubted that such a significant event could be successfully organized in a region located hundreds of kilometres from Nairobi. As preparations began, however, the county witnessed a remarkable transformation. Roads were upgraded, public facilities improved, and key infrastructure projects fast-tracked.
The hospitality industry benefited immensely, with hotels recording high occupancy rates and local businesses experiencing increased economic activity. Taxi operators, traders, vendors, and other service providers all benefited from the influx of visitors and government officials. Residents also observed improvements in public institutions and service delivery. Government agencies enhanced their facilities, improved sanitation standards and upgraded public spaces.
These changes demonstrated the positive impact that national attention can have on local development. One of the most visible achievements was the completion of the Ahmed Khalif Stadium and related infrastructure within a remarkably short period. The project demonstrated what can be achieved when there is political goodwill, adequate resources and effective coordination. Its successful completion should prompt a broader evaluation of government project implementation timelines. If a project of such magnitude can be delivered within 90 days, there is a need to assess why many other public projects take years to complete. The lessons learned in Wajir could help improve efficiency and accelerate development across the country.
The celebrations also led to the establishment of a State Lodge in the county, a significant milestone that elevates Wajir's strategic importance within the national framework. The facility will not only support future state functions and official visits but also symbolize the growing recognition of Northern Kenya's place in the country's governance and development agenda. However, the development also had drawbacks, as some residents lost homes and property due to demolitions linked to road expansion and infrastructure projects. This highlights that while development can bring significant benefits, it can also adversely affect some community members, emphasizing the need for fair, transparent, and rights-based implementation of development projects.
Beyond infrastructure, the greatest impact of the celebrations was the sense of pride and belonging they generated among residents. Families attended the event with their children, many of whom were witnessing a major national celebration in their own county for the first time since Kenya gained independence. For many, it was a historic occasion that affirmed their place within the Kenyan nation. The rotational hosting of national celebrations should continue.
Every county deserves the opportunity to experience the economic, social and psychological benefits that accompany such events. This process of ‘Kenyanization’ and ‘de-Nairobization’ of national celebrations strengthens national cohesion by ensuring that every region feels recognized, valued and included in the country's development journey. The same approach should be extended to national and international conferences, many of which remain concentrated in Nairobi.
Taking these events to different parts of the country would stimulate local economies, promote regional development and further strengthen national integration. The Executive's presence in Wajir during the Madaraka Day celebrations has demonstrated how high-level government engagement can draw attention to local challenges, accelerate decision-making, and spur development. The positive changes and increased focus on infrastructure witnessed in Wajir show the impact that direct engagement can have on improving the lives of citizens.
Going forward, senior government officials should, where practicable, travel by road during such visits. This would enable them to witness firsthand the condition of roads, including potholes, deteriorating tarmac, and impassable sections that many Kenyans contend with daily. Such direct exposure can lead to quicker interventions, better prioritization of resources, and more effective infrastructure development.
If the attention generated by the Wajir visit can bring meaningful improvements, a similar approach across the country could help address long-standing challenges and promote equitable development.
Wajir, like all other counties in Kenya, needs more than a single event to drive lasting development. Sustainable progress requires continuous investment, consistent government commitment, and long-term development initiatives that address residents' needs beyond occasional high-profile visits or celebrations.
This year, it was Wajir's moment. A moment that will remain etched in the county's history and in the hearts of its people for generations to come. A moment of pride, recognition and inclusion.
A moment that reminded the nation that every corner of Kenya matters. As the celebrations came to an end, Wajir was left with more than infrastructure and memories; it was left with a renewed sense of belonging in the Kenyan story.
