The 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir took a high-energy turn after Deputy President Kithure Kindiki ignited the crowd at the fully packed Wajir Stadium with a spirited chant praising President William Ruto.

The stadium, filled to capacity with thousands of residents and dignitaries, erupted in cheers as Kindiki engaged the crowd, turning the historic national event into one of the most animated moments of the celebrations.

Kindiki energizes crowd with praise for Ruto

Addressing the gathering in Wajir during the Madaraka Day celebrations on Monday, June 1, 2026 ,Kindiki highlighted progress made by the country, saying Kenya had made significant strides in national development and unity.

“Tumepiga hatua muhimu katika nchi yetu,” he said, noting that successive administrations had focused on strengthening national identity and development across all regions.

He added that government programmes have consistently prioritized national unity, saying similar structures and coordination are being implemented across the country, including Wajir.

Kindiki then energized the crowd further, leading a chant that echoed across the stadium: “Rais Ruto ni fire si fire?”

The statement drew loud responses from the crowd, with sections of the stadium erupting in applause and chants.

He further praised ongoing development efforts in the region, saying government investment was restoring dignity and improving infrastructure in historically marginalized areas.

“You have brought dignity to our people,” he said, as he pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects, including road networks linking northern Kenya.

Stadium packed as leaders stream in

From early morning, Wajir Stadium was a sea of humanity as residents poured into the 10,000-seater facility, waving flags and singing patriotic songs ahead of the official programme.

The celebrations, being held in Wajir for the first time since independence, have attracted high-level national and county leaders who continued streaming into the packed venue as proceedings unfolded.

Among those already seated inside the stadium were Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi of the State Department for Sports, and Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, alongside other senior government officials.

Historic celebrations in Wajir

The Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir mark the first time the national holiday is being held in the Northern Frontier since independence, following major government investment in infrastructure, including the newly constructed stadium.

The event continues to highlight themes of unity, development, and national inclusion as leaders address thousands of Kenyans gathered for the historic ceremony.