Former Cabinet Secretary and Jubilee Party deputy leader Dr Fred Matiang’i has paid tribute to Kenya’s independence heroes on the 62nd Jamhuri Day, reaffirming his commitment to inclusive and equitable leadership.

In a post on his verified X account on Friday, December 12, 2025, Matiang’i wrote: “Today, I honour the courage and sacrifice of those who won our independence and secured our sovereignty as a nation.”

In his Jamhuri Day message, Matiang’i highlighted the bravery and dedication of Kenya’s independence heroes, acknowledging the immense sacrifices they made to secure the nation’s freedom.

He emphasised that their courage laid the foundation for Kenya’s sovereignty and called on citizens and leaders alike to uphold the values of equality, unity, and shared responsibility in building a nation where all Kenyans are treated fairly, regardless of age, gender, tribe, or social class.

“I reaffirm my commitment to the duty of leadership and to our shared responsibility to build a nation where all are equal, regardless of age, gender, tribe, or class. Happy #JamhuriDay2025.”

Preparations at Nyayo national stadium

Preparations for the main national event at Nyayo National Stadium were in full swing by mid-morning, with top government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, Principal Secretaries, and politicians arriving hours before the official 9:00 a.m. start.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Head of Presidential Special Programmes and Creative Economy Dennis Itumbi were among the early arrivals. Red-plated vehicles carrying diplomats streamed into the stadium as the stands gradually filled up, signalling a well-coordinated national celebration.

This year’s chief guest, Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, arrived on Thursday, December 11, 2025, via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where he was received by a high-level delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.

Security has been significantly heightened around the presidential pavilion and the entire stadium precinct, with police officers manning all entry points ahead of the Head of State’s arrival.

President William Ruto is expected to preside over the celebrations, which carry the theme “Tourism, Wildlife & MICE,” highlighting Kenya’s global prominence as a leading tourism destination and its efforts to promote Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.