Mashujaa Day: Maroon Commandos entertain Eldoret crowd

The Maroon Commandos Band entertained thousands of Kenyans at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret on Tuesday with popular songs ahead of the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations.

The band performed classics including Charonyi ni Wasi, Safari ya Samburu, Usidanganyike na Walimwengu and Wivu ni Adui Mkubwa as wananchi awaited the arrival of President William Ruto and other national leaders.

The performances provided entertainment for people who began arriving at the venue as early as 6 am and set a lively mood ahead of the celebrations.

The event, held in Uasin Gishu County, marked the first time Mashujaa Day was being celebrated in the North Rift region.

The Maroon Commandos’ performance was among the highlights of the build-up to the national event, as government officials, invited dignitaries and members of the public gathered for the annual commemoration.

President Ruto arrived at the stadium later in the morning, following Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who arrived at exactly 9.45 am, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who arrived at around 9.50 am.

First Lady Rachel Ruto arrived at 9.56 am as preparations for the formal proceedings reached their climax.

The programme is being coordinated by Michael Gitonga, Secretary of State Functions in President Ruto’s administration, and Bonnie Musambi, Director of Coordination in the Office of the State House Spokesperson.

Mashujaa Day is celebrated annually on October 20 to honour the heroes and heroines who fought for Kenya’s independence and recognise individuals whose contributions continue to shape the country’s development.

The decentralisation of national celebrations began in 2015, with the government taking major national events to different parts of the country.

Eldoret’s hosting of this year’s event brings the Mashujaa Day celebrations to the North Rift region, while highlighting the region’s role in Kenya’s history and development.