PS Omollo Assesses Madaraka Day Preparations in Wajir as Stadium Hits 28% Completion

The Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration and Chair of the Steering Committee on National Celebrations, Dr. Raymond Omollo, was this morning in Wajir County for an inspection tour to assess the progress of construction and readiness of key facilities ahead of this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations scheduled for June 1, 2026.

Dr Omollo noted that preparations were steadily gaining momentum, with the main stadium currently at 28 per cent completion.

He observed that while the progress marks a strong and encouraging start, there is a need to accelerate the pace of works to ensure timelines were met.

“We are satisfied with the progress made so far, but we must now move with greater speed to ensure that all works are completed within the set timelines. This is a national event, and it must be delivered to the highest standards,” he said.

Dr. Omollo emphasised that the Government was fully committed to delivering a successful national celebration through a coordinated multi￾agency approach, noting that all implementing agencies were working round the clock to meet the required milestone.

We have brought together all relevant agencies under one coordinated framework to ensure seamless delivery. Every aspect of these preparations is being closely monitored to guarantee quality, safety, and timely completion,” he said.

Beyond the stadium, the Principal Secretary noted that significant attention was being given to supporting infrastructure, including the expansion and upgrading of the Wajir International Airport, improvement of access roads, security arrangements, and accommodation facilities to support guests expected to be many.

He said: “The preparations go beyond the stadium. We are equally focused on critical infrastructure such as the airport, road networks, security systems, and accommodation to ensure that Wajir is fully ready to host the nation.”

A government delegation and local leaders inspect progress of the Wajir Stadium as Madaraka Day approaches (Image: Files)

Dr. Omollo reiterated the Government’s policy of rotating national celebrations across different regions continues to promote inclusivity and national cohesion, while leaving behind lasting development benefits for host counties.

“Taking national celebrations across the country is a deliberate policy to foster unity and ensure that every region benefits from national development. What we are seeing in Wajir is a clear demonstration of that commitment,” he noted.

He expressed confidence that all preparations would be completed ahead of schedule and called on residents to prepare to host the nation.

“We are confident that Wajir will be ready. I want to invite all Kenyans to join us here on 1st June as we celebrate Madaraka Day together as one united nation,” he said.

The Wajir Governor H.E. Ahmed Abdullahi, North Eastern Regional Commissioner, Mr. John Otieno, and Government Spokesperson, Dr. Isaac Mwaura, were among those present.

Kenya Welcomes Back Second MSS Contingent from Haiti

Kenya has received the second contingent of its security officers deployed to Haiti under the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission, marking a key milestone as the operation begins a phased transition.

Speaking during the reception of the returning officers, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, described the deployment of approximately 700 officers as historic and commended their service in a complex international security environment.

The officers had been deployed to support efforts to restore peace and stability in Haiti, working alongside international partners and the Haitian National Police.

According to the Ministry, the Kenyan contingent played a central role in stabilizing key areas affected by insecurity.

Their work included supporting law enforcement operations, protecting civilians, and securing critical infrastructure.

The mission also contributed to strengthening local security responses in communities facing sustained threats, in coordination with Haitian authorities.

The Government confirmed that the mission recorded casualties, with three Kenyan officers losing their lives in the line of duty.

During the ceremony, a moment of silence was observed in their honor, with the Government reaffirming its commitment to support the families of the fallen officers.

Returning officers were commended for maintaining discipline, professionalism, and integrity throughout the deployment, despite operating in high-risk conditions.

The return of the contingent comes as the current phase of the MSS Mission begins to wind down.

Officials indicated that while initial deployments are being scaled back, the international community remains engaged in supporting Haiti’s long-term stability and institutional strengthening efforts.

Kenya is expected to continue participating in these efforts alongside global partners to sustain the progress achieved during the mission.

Kenyan Police Officers disembark from the plane on arrival from Haiti (Image: Files)

The deployment to Haiti forms part of Kenya’s broader engagement in international peace and security operations.

Government officials noted that leading the MSS Mission reinforces Kenya’s position as a key partner in global security cooperation and conflict response initiatives.

The returning officers have now been received back into the country following the completion of their deployment.

The Government expressed appreciation for their service and reiterated its recognition of their contribution to international peacekeeping efforts.