It’s all systems go for the 61st Madaraka Day celebrations at the Masinde Muliro Stadium in Bungoma.
Already, president William Ruto has arrived at the Masinde Muliro stadium in Kanduyi.
Today’s Madaraka Day celebration is Ruto’s second event since he took to power.
Ruto’s motorcade snaked its way into the stadium from the new Kakamega state lodge.
The climax of today’s national celebrations will be the president’s speech.
Residents who were eager to celebrate Kenya’s journey to self-rule streamed into the stadium as early as 4.00am.
Long queues were witnessed at the stadium’s main gates as people passed through security checks for screening.
Police have also intensified patrols and surveillance to ensure safety with at least 14,000 people expected to attend the event.
President Ruto arrived in Bungoma county on Thursday afternoon, and is today expected to lead the celebrations.
The National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and several government officials have already arrived at the stadium.
The Masinde Muliro stadium is a 12,700 seater facility with a VVIP lodge section designed to handle 2,000 guests.
This is the first time a national event is being held in Bungoma county.
Upon arrival at the stadium, the Head of State inspected a guard of honor mounted by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) before proceeding to the main dais where he shook hands with various leaders including his deputy Rigathi Gachagua.
He was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri.
This is Kahariri’s first national celebration since he was appointed on May 2.
Apart from the military parade that will be on display, there will also be a march past by other members of the disciplined services.
