The Madaraka Fete

Thousands of Kenyans thronged Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi, to celebrate the 52nd Madaraka Day, commemorating the day Kenya attained internal self rule. The Kenyans attending the celebrations had been expected to have been seated by 8am and the stadium was open from 6am.

President Uhuru Kenyatta arrived at the Nyayo Stadium in a motorcade venue after 11am before inspecting a guard of honour. The inspection was followed by a march-past of the country's security forces.

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, South Africa's deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa and a host of other dignitaries graced the event.

Several groups entertained the crowds through music, dance and drama.

“We have various dignitaries from outside the country who have been invited for the event,” said Nairobi Regional Co-ordinator Njoroge Ndirangu while addressing journalists on Sunday

Mr Ndirangu asked Kenyans to turnout in large numbers for the national celebrations, saying that a variety of entertainment activities have been lined up. About 30,000 people were expected at the stadium. However, he said hawkers would not be allowed inside the stadium for security reasons.

Thousands of police officers have been deployed across Nairobi County to ensure that all Kenyans are safe.

“Security officers will patrol in informal settlements, central business district and other parts of the county,” said Mr Ndirangu adding that no roads will be closed unless when the President will be going to and leaving the stadium.

In his speech the president stated that his government is working hard every day to make Kenya a country we all can be proud to live and to work in.  The greatness of the country is defined by what each one of us contributes to build it, and the benefits all of us draw from it.

Just as his Government will work with these outside groups, so too will we work with parents, teachers and community leaders.  Theirs is not a minor responsibility.  Radicalization does not always wear its intentions openly. 

The president also mentioned the achievments made in the health sector and how last week he had the pleasure of commissioning new, modern medical equipment in Machakos County. 

"Today, in our time, we have the power to bring down those walls that stand in the way to realizing our timeless vision of a better united Kenya.  We must bring down the walls of poverty, tribalism, and the walls of intolerance." He said.

The topic of insecurity and radicalism did not escape and he spoke candidly on the issue as he assured Kenyans of actions to be taken on those found engaging in the vice.

Reference : www.nation.co.ke