By K47 Digital News | October 20, 2025 | Kitui, Kenya
Kenya came together in unity and emotion on Monday, October 20, 2025, as the nation marked Mashujaa Day at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County — a celebration that not only honoured Kenya’s heroes and heroines but also turned into a moment of deep national reflection.
This year’s event, themed “Transforming Lives through Sustainable Energy Solutions,” was a vibrant, emotional, and symbolically powerful commemoration that paid tribute to past and present heroes who have shaped Kenya’s history.
The presence of President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, top government officials, foreign dignitaries, and the National Police Service (NPS) underscored the national significance of the celebration. Yet, the most touching moment came when President Ruto delivered a heartfelt tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, a political giant and liberation icon whose passing earlier last week a void in Kenya’s political landscape.
The Origins of Mashujaa Day: From Kenyatta Day to a National Tribute
Mashujaa Day, formerly known as Kenyatta Day, is one of Kenya’s most revered national holidays. It traces its origins to the colonial era, when the British detained leading independence activists, including Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Bildad Kaggia, Fred Kubai, Paul Ngei, and Achieng’ Oneko—collectively remembered as the Kapenguria Six.
Originally dedicated to honouring their struggle for independence, the 2010 Constitution renamed the day Mashujaa Day, broadening its scope to celebrate all individuals—known and unknown—who contributed to the nation’s freedom, unity, and development.
Over the years, the event has evolved beyond a historical commemoration into a moment of reflection on Kenya’s ongoing journey toward unity, prosperity, and sustainability.
A National Celebration Hosted in Kitui County
The choice of Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County as this year’s venue was both symbolic and strategic. Kitui, one of Kenya’s most promising counties in renewable energy development, embodied the 2025 theme focused on sustainable energy and transformation.
Thousands of Kenyans filled the newly refurbished stadium, waving flags, singing patriotic songs, and donning the national colours—black, red, green, and white. The atmosphere was electric, filled with both pride and emotion.
Security was tight yet efficient, coordinated by the National Police Service (NPS) and Administration Police Service (APS) under the leadership of senior commanders who ensured the event proceeded smoothly.
A Day of Dignitaries: Kenya Welcomes Senegal and Mozambique Leaders
This year’s Mashujaa Day was graced by two high-profile guests:
- H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of the Republic of Senegal, and
- H.E. Maria Benvinda Levy, Prime Minister of the Republic of Mozambique.
Both dignitaries delivered goodwill messages celebrating Kenya’s heroes while emphasizing Pan-African solidarity and mutual progress. They lauded Kenya’s leadership in renewable energy, peacekeeping, and democratic governance.
President Faye of Senegal particularly highlighted Kenya’s historic role in promoting peace across Africa, while Prime Minister Levy commended the late Raila Odinga’s legacy in advocating for democracy, human rights, and African unity.
Their messages were received with thunderous applause from the crowd, reinforcing Kenya’s growing reputation as a beacon of peace and leadership on the continent.
Ruto’s Emotional Tribute: Remembering Raila Odinga’s Legacy
The emotional peak of the ceremony came when President William Ruto took to the podium.
In a heartfelt tone rarely seen in national addresses, the President paid glowing tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a patriotic, visionary, and selfless leader whose life was dedicated to the service of the nation.
“Today, as we celebrate our heroes, we also honour one of our greatest sons — Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga,” President Ruto said. “He embodied courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to Kenya’s unity and democracy. His spirit continues to inspire us to strive for a better, fairer, and more prosperous nation.”
The crowd, visibly moved, stood in silence for a minute to honour Raila’s memory.
Ruto’s remarks marked a symbolic moment of national healing, bridging political divides and demonstrating unity beyond partisanship. Political observers hailed it as a defining gesture in Kenya’s journey toward reconciliation and collective nation-building.
Three Pillars for a Sustainable Kenya
President Ruto also used the occasion to outline his administration’s three priority pillars aimed at transforming Kenya into a sustainable and inclusive economy.
1. Enhancing Food Security
The President reaffirmed the government’s dedication to strengthening agricultural productivity through irrigation, mechanisation, and climate-smart farming. He highlighted ongoing projects in Kitui and other arid counties aimed at improving food resilience and reducing dependency on imports.
2. Promoting Agro-Processing and Industrialisation
He emphasized the importance of value addition and industrial development, noting that Kenya must move from being a raw material exporter to an industrial powerhouse.
“We are creating an environment where our youth can innovate, farmers can benefit from fair markets, and every county becomes a centre of production and growth,” the President stated.
3. Expanding Sustainable Energy Capacity
The President reiterated his commitment to achieving universal access to clean, renewable energy by 2030.
He announced new partnerships with global investors in solar, wind, and green hydrogen to accelerate Kenya’s clean energy transformation, aligning with the day’s theme of sustainable solutions.
National Police Service: A Symbol of Security and Unity
The National Police Service (NPS) played a key role in the success of this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations. Representing the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Douglas Kanja, was the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Mr. Eliud Lagat, who led the police delegation.
He was accompanied by senior NPS leadership, including:
- Mr. Gilbert Masengeli, Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service (APS)
- Mr. Mohammed Amin, Director, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)**
Their presence demonstrated the NPS’s commitment to upholding national unity, discipline, and patriotism — values that are deeply intertwined with the spirit of Mashujaa Day.
Senior Police Commanders Present at Ithookwe Stadium
The event saw a formidable lineup of senior police officers who represented Kenya’s security apparatus at its highest level. Among them were:
- Mr. Nyale Munga, Commandant, National Police College Main Campus Kiganjo (SAIG)
- Mr. Ranson Lolmodooni, Commandant, General Service Unit (SAIG)
- Ms. Rosemary Kuraru, Director, DCI Forensic Laboratory
- Mr. Isaac Alimaa, Commandant, National Police College Embakasi A Campus (SAIG)
- Mr. Sospeter Munyi, Commandant, NCIA, DCI (SAIG)
- Mr. Davis Lomwatu, Commandant, Border Patrol Unit (SAIG)
- Mr. James Kamau, Commandant, Border Patrol Training Campus (SAIG)
- Mr. Peter Ndung’u, Director of Logistics, Kenya Police Service (SAIG)
- Mr. Adamson Bungei, Director of Operations, Kenya Police Service (SAIG)
- Mr. Jackson Kangani, Director of Operations, Administration Police Service (SAIG)**
- Mr. David Birech, Director of Training, Kenya Police Service (SAIG)
- Mr. Hesbon Lusweti, Director of Personnel, APS (SAIG)**
- Mr. Muchiri Nyaga, NPS Spokesperson (AIG)**
Other senior officers included:
- Mr. Charles Mutuma, Commandant, NGAPU (AIG)**
- Mr. Kenneth Kimani, Director, National Police Reservists (AIG)**
- Mr. Aggrey Shamala, Commandant, Rapid Deployment Unit (AIG)**
- Mr. Jasper Ombati, Rift Valley Regional Police Commander (AIG)**
- Dr. Musyoki Mutungi, Liaison Officer for Traffic, KPS (AIG)**
- Mr. Hillary Birgen, Eastern Regional Police Commander (AIG)**
- Mr. Haron Nthiga, Chief of Staff, APS (AIG)**
Their participation reflected the NPS’s unified dedication to peace, order, and national security — vital pillars of Kenya’s stability.
Honouring Kenya’s Heroes: From Freedom Fighters to Modern Trailblazers
Throughout the ceremony, speeches and performances paid homage to Kenya’s heroes across generations. From independence icons like Dedan Kimathi, Field Marshal Muthoni wa Kirima, and Tom Mboya, to modern heroes like medical workers, teachers, soldiers, and police officers, the message was clear — every act of service counts toward nation-building.
A captivating performance by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) band and cultural troupes from all 47 counties showcased Kenya’s diversity and resilience. Poems, dances, and traditional songs echoed the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the nation’s identity.
President Ruto took a moment to recognise the late General Francis Ogolla, describing him as a disciplined soldier who served Kenya with unmatched loyalty.
“Our heroes remind us that the cost of freedom is eternal vigilance. We must carry forward their torch through service, integrity, and innovation,” Ruto stated.
Clean Energy as a Pathway to Transformation
The 2025 Mashujaa Day theme, “Transforming Lives through Sustainable Energy Solutions,” reflected Kenya’s strategic shift toward green energy.
In his address, President Ruto emphasised that sustainable energy is not just about the environment — it’s about equality, opportunity, and prosperity.
He highlighted ongoing projects like:
- The Lake Turkana Wind Power Project
- Garissa Solar Plant
- Olkaria Geothermal Expansion
- New mini-grid projects in Kitui and Marsabit
These initiatives aim to power schools, hospitals, and industries sustainably, ensuring that no Kenyan is left behind in the transition to a clean energy economy.
A Day of Reflection and National Pride
As the national anthem echoed across Ithookwe Stadium, a deep sense of pride resonated among Kenyans.
Citizens interviewed at the venue expressed gratitude for the country’s progress and called for continued unity.
“Today is about remembering where we’ve come from — from the days of struggle to where we are now,” said Mary Mutua, a resident of Kitui. “Seeing the President honour Raila Odinga shows that Kenya is maturing politically. We need to keep that spirit alive.”
Younger Kenyans, too, saw the celebration as an opportunity to redefine heroism in modern terms — through innovation, entrepreneurship, and service to others.
The Role of the Police in Safeguarding National Celebrations
The Mashujaa Day celebration highlighted the professionalism and coordination of the National Police Service in managing large national events.
Officers from the Kenya Police Service, Administration Police Service, DCI, and Specialized Units were deployed across Kitui to ensure safety and order.
Their discipline and efficiency reflected the NPS’s ongoing transformation under the leadership of Inspector General Douglas Kanja, who has prioritised modernization, community policing, and officer welfare.
Foreign Relations and Regional Cooperation
The attendance of President Faye and Prime Minister Levy was more than symbolic; it marked Kenya’s growing diplomatic influence in Africa.
Discussions on the sidelines of the event reportedly focused on renewable energy collaboration, trade, and security partnerships between Kenya, Senegal, and Mozambique.
Analysts view Kenya’s hosting of the 2025 Mashujaa Day in Kitui as a statement of intent — positioning the country as a continental leader in green transition and sustainable development.
A Celebration of Hope, Unity, and Renewal
As the ceremony drew to a close, the sky above Kitui was lit by colourful fireworks, symbolising Kenya’s enduring hope and resilience.
For many, the highlight of the day remained Ruto’s tribute to Raila Odinga, which transformed a national celebration into a powerful moment of unity.
The President’s gesture reminded Kenyans that even in political rivalry, there lies a shared dream — the dream of a free, prosperous, and united Kenya.
“Our heroes teach us that Kenya is stronger when we stand together,” Ruto concluded. “Let us honour them not only with words but with deeds that uplift every Kenyan.”
NPS Message: Honouring Heroes in Uniform
In a statement issued after the ceremony, the National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to serving Kenyans with integrity and dedication.
“As we mark Mashujaa Day, we salute all police officers — past and present — who have laid down their lives in defence of our great nation,” read part of the NPS message.
The service also expressed appreciation to its members for their continued sacrifice in maintaining peace, enforcing the law, and fostering public trust.
Conclusion: Carrying Forward the Torch of Heroism
The 2025 Mashujaa Day celebration at Ithookwe Stadium was not just an event — it was a national renewal, a celebration of unity, and a call to action.
From Ruto’s tribute to Raila Odinga to the recognition of unsung heroes, the ceremony encapsulated Kenya’s journey from colonial resistance to modern transformation.
It was a reminder that heroism is timeless — it lives in every teacher who inspires, every doctor who saves lives, every officer who safeguards peace, and every citizen who believes in Kenya’s potential.
As the sun set over Kitui, the message was clear: Kenya’s heroes may rest, but their spirit lives on — guiding the nation toward a brighter, cleaner, and more united future.
