Hundreds of people have already taken to their seats at the refurbished Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park terraces ready for the Madaraka day celebrations after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic that almost crumbled the economy.
The gates were opened at exactly 6 am.
The celebration marks a very important milestone in the nation as the country celebrate 59 years since the attainment of self-rule from the yoke of colonialism and also approaching the third general election since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.
Nairobi Regional Commissioner William Kang’ethe Thuku said that the park has a capacity of over 30,000 persons that can accommodate citizens to join the President and other dignitaries in marking the important day.
Various dignitaries including diplomats, Governors, Cabinet Secretaries, and MPs have already arrived and are being ushered through Gate 3.
During the event Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i said, “we are ensuring security to create a level of confidence in our people and we have enhanced capabilities and we are ready for any security challenge.”
Security is very high with both the military, Kenya Police and Administration Police taking charge at both the various entrances and within the stadium.
Sniff dogs have also been spotted moving around ensuring the event is safe and secure to continue.
Traffic police officers have also taken charge to direct traffic to the venue with various parking grounds set aside to host those arriving.
Madaraka Day is celebrated annually across the country in commemoration of June 1, 1963, when Kenya attained internal self-rule for the first time since becoming a British colony.