The government spent Ksh946 million to prepare for the 61st Madaraka Day Celebrations slated for June 1 in Bungoma County.
In a statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura revealed that the millions were used to renovate and prepare key infrastructure including the Masinde Muliro Stadium ahead of the fete.
According to Mwaura, the majority of the funds were used to undertake the first phase of the stadium which has a sitting capacity of 40,000.
"The government is also committed to enhancing infrastructure and social services in the region. The completion of Phase I of the Masinde Muliro project in Kanduyi Sub-county, costing Ksh807 million," read the statement in part.
On the other hand, the government also used Ksh139 million to facilitate construction works at Matulo Airstrip.
Mwaura indicated majority of the works included rehabilitation of the airstrip which will be used by commercial flights upon its official launch.
"Phase II of the Masinde Muliro project, covering terraces, perimeter fence, and access passes, is nearly complete at an additional cost of Ksh790 million.
"Educational investments, such as the construction of an Engineering and TVET Complex at Masinde Muliro University, reflect the government's dedication to improving access to quality education," Mwaura added.
Bungoma County is set to host the 2024 Madaraka Day celebrations. The event will be led by President William Ruto.
The event is set to be themed around agriculture with Ruto also expected to announce various initiatives to be undertaken in the sector led by CS Mithika Linturi.
"As we celebrate Madaraka Day, we honour our forefathers' dreams and commit to a future of continued prosperity. President Ruto will highlight the key milestones in regards to agriculture and food security and give our vision for the future as per the BETA agenda as enshrined in Medium Term Plan 4.
"Recently, our economy has grown and the GDP growth is strongly attributed to a rebound in the agricultural sector," he stated.
