Wajir DG Ahmed Muhumed: Madaraka Day was a historic moment of inclusion
By Sharon Atieno, June 5, 2026Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed has described the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir as a historic turning point for the region, saying the event symbolised inclusion and recognition for communities that had for decades felt left out of the country’s mainstream national narrative.
Speaking during an interview on a local station on Friday, June 05, 2026, Muhumed said hosting a national celebration in Wajir carried significance beyond ceremony, arguing that it reflected a deeper national message of unity and belonging.
“It was historic for such a national occasion to be held in Wajir. It was emotional and for many people, it felt like a moment of recognition and inclusion,” he said.
Muhumed noted that the event represented a broader shift in the country’s journey toward inclusivity, saying communities in Northern Kenya viewed the celebrations as an affirmation that they are an integral part of Kenya’s identity and future.
Moment of inclusion for Northern Kenya
According to the Deputy Governor, one of the strongest symbols during the celebrations came through young performers who presented a map of Kenya, which he described as a reflection of history and belonging.
“The youngsters who drew the map of Kenya were speaking through history. It showed that people from the North are part of this country’s story and that the day marked a beginning of inclusion,” he stated.
He further pointed to the wording used during the national celebrations, saying it carried a message that resonated deeply with local communities.
“The speech began with ‘This is Wajir, this is Kenya’ and ended with the same words. That speaks volumes because Kenya belongs to all of us,” he added.
Wajir chosen for historic national event
Muhumed’s remarks come months after President William Ruto announced that Wajir would host the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations, marking the first time a national holiday event would be held in the Northern Frontier region.
During the announcement, the government also unveiled plans for a KSh900 million modern stadium project aimed at supporting both the national celebrations and long-term sports development in the area.
President Ruto had said the move was part of efforts to promote balanced national development and expand national investments beyond traditional urban centres.
Beyond celebrations
Muhumed maintained that the significance of Madaraka Day in Wajir went beyond infrastructure and festivities, saying many residents saw it as a powerful statement that no region should feel forgotten.
He argued that for many people, the celebrations represented a symbolic movement from the margins to the centre of national attention.