Kenya's 59th Madaraka Day celebrations cost taxpayers Sh70 million, according to Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho, who noted the figure includes performer allowances and venue preparations.
Kibicho described the expenditure as modest, emphasizing no infrastructure projects were funded. He estimated the total would range between 60 to 70 million shillings, covering artist fees and event logistics.
The Uhuru Gardens event, open to all Kenyans, was expected to draw 30,000 attendees. Kibicho confirmed the venue's capacity would accommodate everyone, stating, "The park has a 30,000 sitting capacity and therefore I am confident that it will accommodate all those who would love to be at the venue."
Military displays will highlight this year's celebrations, marking President Uhuru Kenyatta's final national Madaraka Day. Kibicho said the event will showcase military hardware and capabilities, adding, "There will be a lot of showcasing of military wear, hardware... it will be because they will have to say goodbye to their commander in chief."
Kenyatta, who assumed office in 2013 under the Jubilee Party, reflected on his decade-long presidency during a pre-event gathering. "Am confident we have laid a firm foundation for those who shall come after to continue and to build a bigger brighter and more prosperous Kenya," he stated. The event included all cabinet secretaries but excluded Deputy President William Ruto, who has maintained a distinct political trajectory.