Kenya: Madaraka Day Celebrations programme, line-up announced

 The event will not only mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s political history, but also serve as a powerful showcase of the country’s rich and diverse musical talent.

With President William Ruto expected to preside over the celebrations, this year’s event places music at the heart of its commemorative programme, curated by the Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC). The line-up features various genres including gospel, ohangla, Afro-benga and traditional orutu performances, among others.

According to the organisers, months of regional auditions and rehearsals have culminated in a carefully crafted schedule, featuring artists from Homa Bay and beyond. The performances will unfold in three stages: the Morning Programme and Main Programme at Raila Odinga Stadium, followed by an Afternoon Luncheon Programme at the newly built Homa Bay State Lodge.

Music line-up

Early Morning Performances will feature uniformed bands such as the Maroon Commandoes, GSU Eagles Band, and Presidential Escort Unit Band, alongside Homa Bay-based groups including Shirati Jazz Band, Victoria Kings Band, and Jamnazi Afrika Band. Choirs from across the region, such as the Homabay Combined Teachers Trainers Choir and Most Holy Trinity Catholic Choir, will also perform.

The Main Programme will showcase themed musical productions as follows: Gospel Segment (featuring Milka Omondi, Linda Owino, Kevin Gombe, and others), Ohangla Segment (with celebrated artists such as Thomas Oluoch, Freddy Jakadongo, and Achieng Nyarongo), Afro-Benga Segment (including Kapweps, Lizzie Seme, and Sherine Awuour) and the Orutu Segment (Highlighting traditional stringed instrument performances by Charles Odhiambo Odhiambo and Peter Opiyo).

Cultural productions will see performances from renowned dance troupes including the Kagan Kochia Cultural Dancers, Karachuonyo Cultural Dancers, and Nyagwethe Abasuba Dancers. Popular artists will bring star power to the stage, with Homa Bay musicians such as Onyi Papa Jay, Joseh Langa, and Tabby Odanga sharing the spotlight with artists from other counties, including Margret Kerubo and Winrose Chebet.

Choral highlights include appearances by the State House Choir, Bridal Choir, and End Times Revival Choir. School and community groups such as Asumbi Girls High School and Kongo Primary will also participate, emphasising youth involvement and community pride.

Music as national identity

The performances are part of a broader cultural celebration aimed at reinforcing national unity through the arts. Studio recordings and music videos tied to the event will be released on PPMC’s YouTube channel and major streaming platforms a day before the event, giving audiences across Kenya and abroad a preview of what’s to come.

PPMC director Fredrick Wanyama said this year’s programme represents “a living archive of Kenya’s sonic identity,” blending contemporary creativity with traditional artistry.

As the nation commemorates 62 years since achieving internal self-rule in 1963, the Madaraka Day entertainment line-up will not only entertain but also serve as a reminder of the resilience, diversity, and creativity of Kenyan people.