Kenyans celebrate Madaraka Day to mark internal self-rule
What you need to know:
- President Uhuru Kenyatta arrive at the venue at around 11am.
- Thousands of police officers have been deployed across Nairobi County to ensure that all Kenyans are safe.
- Hawkers will not be allowed inside the stadium.
Thousands of Kenyans thronged Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi, to celebrate the 52nd Madaraka Day, commemorating the day Kenya attained internal self rule.
President Uhuru Kenyatta arrived at the Nyayo Stadium in a motorcade venue after 11am before inspecting a guard of honour. The inspection was followed by a march-past of the country's security forces.
Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, South Africa's deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa and a host of other dignitaries graced the event.
Several groups entertained the crowds through music, dance and drama.
The crowds at Nyayo Stadium for the Madaraka Day celebrations, June 1, 2015.
The Kenyans attending the celebrations had been expected to have been seated by 8am and the stadium was open from 6am.
“We have various dignitaries from outside the country who have been invited for the event,” said Nairobi Regional Co-ordinator Njoroge Ndirangu while addressing journalists on Sunday
Mr Ndirangu asked Kenyans to turnout in large numbers for the national celebrations, saying that a variety of entertainment activities have been lined up.
30,000 PEOPLE EXPECTED
About 30,000 people were expected at the stadium.
However, he said hawkers would not be allowed inside the stadium for security reasons.
Thousands of police officers have been deployed across Nairobi County to ensure that all Kenyans are safe.
“Security officers will patrol in informal settlements, central business district and other parts of the county,” said Mr Ndirangu adding that no roads will be closed unless when the President will be going to and leaving the stadium.
