01/06/2026
Do you know the history behind Madaraka Day?
On June 1, 1963, over 100,000 Kenyans packed Nairobi’s streets to watch Mzee Jomo Kenyatta become Kenya's first Prime Minister, marking the start of internal self-rule (Madaraka).
While total independence and the Kenyan flag-raising were still six months away, the mood was wonderful. Swept up by the roaring crowd, Kenyatta from his speech declared that Madaraka (Authority) belonged to the people and spontaneously told them to take the rest of the day off to celebrate.
How are you celebrating your Madaraka Day?