Pomp and colour as Kwale hosts 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations
President William Ruto arriving in Kwale for the 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations. He was received by the Deputy President nominee Kithure Kindiki. Courtesy photo
President William Ruto is in Kwale County to preside over the 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations.
There is excitement as Kwale hosts its first-ever national event--the 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations--at the newly constructed Kwale Stadium.
With a capacity of 10,000, the stadium was filled to the brim with eager locals, marking a historic moment for the coastal county.
The event, which celebrates Kenyan heroes and heroines, was a grand spectacle, featuring a first-ever all-female command of the guard of honour.
Lieutenant Colonel Faith Mwagandi, a trailblazer in her own right, led the impressive parade, setting a precedent for future national events.
The President was welcomed by Deputy President nominee, the current CS Interior Prof Kithure Kindiki.
Locals expressed their delight at having the event in their hometown, many of whom had never had the opportunity to witness such a grand occasion up close.
Ms Mwanarusi Mwang'anda, a resident, shared her excitement.
“I have only seen these events on television. Today, I'm thrilled to see the President live for the first time. This is a dream come true," Ms Mwang'anda told AVDelta News.
The event also had a significant economic impact on the local community.
Mr Ali Juma, a small business owner, noted that the influx of visitors had provided a much-needed boost to the economy.
“It has been a good week for us business people, especially food vendors, AirBnB operators, guest houses and hotels. Visitors have been coming in since the beginning of the week, and we've made great sales. We hope this event opens up more economic opportunities for Kwale,” Mr Juma said.
The KDF parade and drill also excited the locals who had never seen the flights so close.
Ms Rahma Ali, who operates a food stall at Kwale town, said she has been able to sell three(3) 20kg-buckets of mandazi to the attendees of the function.
"People have been here as early as 5am in the morning. I've managed to make more sell than any other day," Ms Ali said.
