BY KEPHER OTIENO

As Kenya marks another Madaraka Day on June 1st, we not only celebrate our hard-won internal self-rule attained in 1963, but also the unfolding promise of equitable development under the leadership of President William Ruto.

This year, the spotlight shines on Homa Bay County—a region rich in history, potential, and now, renewed hope.

Madaraka Day has always stood as a symbol of self-determination, a reminder of our freedom fighters’ sacrifice, and a moment to reflect on the journey toward national unity and shared prosperity.

In recent years, it has evolved into more than just a day of commemoration—it has become an instrument of transformation.

The policy to rotate national celebrations among counties is not only inclusive but visionary.

And Homa Bay, this year’s host, is a shining example of what this model can achieve.

President Ruto’s Hand in Homa Bay’s Transformation

It would be remiss not to acknowledge the role of President William Ruto in Homa Bay’s current transformation.

In a county long overlooked despite its strategic location and abundant resources, the President has shown a genuine commitment to rewriting the narrative.

By championing infrastructure upgrades, affordable housing, trade facilitation, and improved public services, President Ruto has sent a clear message: development is a right for all 47 counties, not a privilege for a few.

The residents of Homa Bay have taken notice. Many I spoke to—business owners, boda boda riders, farmers, youth—shared a similar sentiment: they feel seen, heard, and empowered.

Come the 2027 general election, several said they will remember who made this difference possible.

“We owe the Ruto-led government a debt of gratitude,” one resident told me. “This time, we will say thank you with our votes.”

A United Front: National and County Governments in Sync

Also deserving of recognition is Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who has worked hand in hand with the national government to ensure that this opportunity delivers long-lasting benefits.

Her openness to collaboration and shared development goals has created a seamless partnership, one that prioritizes results over rhetoric.

Governor Wanga herself has lauded the rotating Madaraka Day model as a game-changer, calling it an inclusive approach to nation-building.

Her leadership, alongside that of local officials and Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo—a humble son of the region and an industrous technocrat and beaucrat—has accelerated the implementation of key projects across the county.

Already, the results are visible. Roads have been upgraded, streetlights switched on, housing projects launched, and the local stadium transformed into a modern facility.

These aren’t mere cosmetic changes; they are investments in the people of Homa Bay, catalysts for trade, tourism, and jobs.

Beyond infrastructure, Homa Bay is now positioning itself as a hub for agriculture, fisheries, real estate, and manufacturing. Investors are paying attention. Land values are rising, and the mood across towns and villages is hopeful.

Madaraka Day, it seems, has not only revived the spirit of freedom—it has reignited the engines of growth.

The success in Homa Bay is proof that when counties are given national attention, they rise to the occasion. Rotating national celebrations is more than symbolism; it’s a strategic tool for decentralizing opportunity. It spreads both visibility and value across the republic.

As we gather to mark Madaraka Day this year, let us honor our past while embracing a more equitable future—one where no county is forgotten, and no Kenyan is left behind. President Ruto’s leadership in this endeavor is commendable, and Homa Bay stands today as living testimony to what visionary governance can achieve.

For the people of Homa Bay, this Madaraka Day is more than a national celebration.

It is a thank-you note to a government that remembered them, believed in them, and delivered for them.

They owe President Ruto more rewards in 2027 General Elections at the ballot so that more such developments can continue for the common good of all.

(The writer is a media consultant and regular commentator on governance, democracy and development. Kepherpeace@gmail.com)