Homa Bay County made history on June 1, 2025, by hosting the 62nd Madaraka Day national celebrations for the first time. The event, commemorating Kenya's attainment of internal self-rule from British colonial rule in 1963, saw thousands of citizens converge on the newly upgraded Raila Odinga Stadium, transforming the region into a hub of national focus and patriotic fervor.

The public enthusiasm for the celebrations was palpable, with immense crowds thronging the Raila Odinga Stadium. Many attendees arrived as early as Saturday night, hours before the official start on Sunday, to secure their seats. Reports indicated that the stadium, with a capacity variously cited between 12,000 and 20,000 seats following its recent expansion from a modest 3,000, was nearly full by midnight. Videos and images circulated widely, showing people streaming into the venue, braving the night with remarkable energy and patriotism, underscoring the deep public interest in this historic occasion for Homa Bay.

President William Ruto was scheduled to lead the day's celebrations. He was to be joined by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose presence in his home region added to the significance. In a notable diplomatic engagement, President Nataša Pirc Musar of Slovenia was the chief guest for the celebrations, highlighting Kenya's growing international relations during her three-day state visit.

The theme for this year's Madaraka Day was “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for National Prosperity.” This focus underscored the government's commitment to developing Kenya's aquatic resources, particularly relevant for Homa Bay, which borders Lake Victoria. The celebrations traditionally feature military parades, cultural displays, and speeches reflecting on national progress and future aspirations.

In the days leading up to the event, Homa Bay County witnessed a flurry of activity. President Ruto, who arrived in the region on Thursday, launched several significant infrastructure and development projects. These included the tarmacking of the 40-kilometre Marindi–Oria Bridge Road, the commissioning of 901 affordable housing units in Kisumu, the launch of the Lake Victoria Point project in Kirembe, the groundbreaking for the Gor Mahia Ring Road in Magina, and the revitalization of the Homa Bay pier. These initiatives were presented as part of a broader governmental push for regional equality and economic empowerment, with the upgraded Raila Odinga Stadium itself now positioned as a top-tier venue for sports, tourism, and national events.

The political atmosphere surrounding the event also drew attention, particularly the evolving dynamic between President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Their recent political rapprochement, often described as a 'bromance' or 'deal', was noted by observers, with some interpreting the enthusiastic turnout in Homa Bay as a reflection of public support for this newfound cooperation. Political Risk Analyst Dismas Mokua commented, "Homa Bay gets to witness power live and direct, with President Ruto present at the Madaraka Day celebrations, as the town has transformed for the better." Area MP Peter Kaluma also highlighted the overwhelming attendance, noting the stadium was full by midnight.

To ensure the safety and order of the event, security was significantly heightened in and around the Raila Odinga Stadium. A heavy police presence was visible, and all individuals entering the venue underwent thorough screening.

The hosting of the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations marked a significant milestone for Homa Bay County. It not only brought national attention to the region but also symbolized a renewed focus on its development potential, particularly within the burgeoning blue economy sector. The immense public participation and the presence of national and international dignitaries underscored the unity and shared aspirations of the Kenyan people on this important national day.