Homa Bay County will make history on June 1, 2025, as it hosts the national Madaraka Day celebrations for the first time, with a sharp national focus on unlocking the potential of Kenya’s blue economy.
The 62nd Madaraka Day will be held under the theme “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Growth”, a message that has ignited calls for strategic investments in maritime, aquatic, and fisheries resources.
Speaking on Tuesday, May 27, ahead of the celebrations, Tom Guda, National Chairman of the Beach Management Unit (BMU) Network, urged national leaders to align their interventions with the theme and prioritize the needs of fishing communities.
“This year, on the 1st of June, Homa Bay is privileged to host the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, and interestingly enough, the theme is harnessing Kenya’s blue economy for sustainable growth,” said Guda. “As the leadership of the Beach Management Unit, we are calling on all leaders participating in this year’s event to help us explore the untapped potential of the blue economy.”
Guda underscored the urgent need for sustainable practices in the fisheries sector, a key economic pillar for communities around Lake Victoria.
“As a fisher community, our first priority is sustainable resource management. These are core elements that must be considered in any investment in the blue economy,” he said. “We must ensure captured fisheries are protected. This requires collaboration to guarantee the long-term viability of fishing livelihoods.”
In addition to sustainability, Guda called for the modernization of fishing technologies, including boat construction.
“Today, as we mark Madaraka Day, our people still use wood to make boats. Can’t we explore new technologies and start producing boats made of fiberglass?” he posed.
Madaraka Week Highlights
The week leading up to the national celebration will feature high-profile events:
- May 29: Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki will open the “Our Water, Our Wealth” Blue Economy Conference at the Homa Bay lakefront. President William Ruto will launch the construction of the Gor Mahia Ring Road and the Ndhiwa Technical Training Institute in Ndhiwa Constituency.
- May 30: Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga will address delegates at the Blue Economy Conference as Chief Guest.
- May 31: Rwandan President Paul Kagame will deliver the keynote address at the close of the conference and will later be hosted by President Ruto at the Homa Bay State Lodge.
- June 1: Homa Bay will host its first-ever national State function, marking a historic Madaraka Day celebration for both the county and the country.
As Kenya turns its gaze toward the untapped wealth of its waters, this year’s Madaraka Day is poised to be a turning point for policy, partnerships, and progress.
