Kenyans flock Nyayo Stadium for Jamhuri Day celebrations

Hundreds of Kenyans have poured into Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium as the country marked its 62nd Jamhuri Day.

The moment is key as it celebrates Kenya’s journey to full independence.

Long before sunrise on Friday, crowds braved the biting morning cold, streaming through the stadium gates in steady waves, determined to secure a seat ahead of the day’s formal programme.

By 8.30 am, the stadium had transformed into a sea of colour, rhythm and patriotic energy. 

Spectators filled the terraces in coordinated colour segments—black, red, white and green—perfectly aligning with the chromatic layout that symbolises the national flag. 

From a panoramic view, the crowd resembled a living, breathing Kenyan flag, its patterns rippling as attendees waved flags, stood to cheer or shifted to the beat of the performances.

Groups of spectators could be seen waving miniature Kenyan flags, raising them proudly as the choir heightened its tempo or shifted to a patriotic tune. 

Their performances set the tone for the morning as officials prepared for the arrival of dignitaries, led by President William Ruto, who is expected to preside over the national celebrations. 

Others lifted white handkerchiefs in synchronised movements, adding to the celebratory choreography that has become tradition at national events. 

The atmosphere was charged with excitement, anticipation and unity.

Security was heightened both inside and around Nyayo Stadium.

Jamhuri Day—derived from the Swahili word “jamhuri,” meaning republic—commemorates Kenya’s attainment of full independence on December 12, 1963. 

The day marks the moment Kenya formally transitioned from colonial rule into a sovereign republic, just six months after celebrating Madaraka Day, the milestone recognising internal self-governance. 

Sixty-two years later, the day remains a powerful reminder of the country’s historic journey, sacrifices made by liberation heroes and the aspirations that continue to shape Kenya’s political, economic and social future.

This year’s Jamhuri celebrations thematic week was held from December 8-11, 2025, under the theme “Tourism, Wildlife, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE).

Jamhuri Day has become an important platform for highlighting Kenya’s achievements in sectors like tourism, wildlife conservation, and business innovation, as demonstrated in the 62nd celebrations at Nyayo Stadium.

According to Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, the week focused on positioning Kenya as a global tourism and MICE hub by showcasing the country’s capacity to host major international events and strengthening its competitiveness through improved event bidding, promotion of key national events and investment in MICE infrastructure. 

It serves as a reminder of both the struggles and the achievements that have defined the nation’s history

This year’s celebrations come at a time when the country is navigating economic pressures, governance debates and ongoing public discourse around national developmet.