Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga Statement On Madaraka Day 2025 Preparations

The meeting was held against the backdrop of the county preparing to host the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, marking a historic first for national public celebrations to occur in the Nyanza region outside of Kisumu City. To ensure the successful implementation of quick initiatives aligned with the theme of this year's events, focusing on the blue economy and maritime affairs, the meeting resolved to organize, in collaboration with the State Department of Blue Economy, a One Week Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Summit from 26th to 31st May 2025. As a precursor to Madaraka Week, the county will hold a Blue Economy Leadership Summit on the sidelines to foster collaboration among stakeholders in the blue economy, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), beach management units (BMUs), cooperative movements, youth, women, and the wider community. The objective is to develop practical solutions that will unlock the blue economy's potential in the Lake Victoria Basin.

On the new county headquarters, the meeting took note of its progress, currently at 86% completion, with a target commissioning date set for May 25, 2025, during Madaraka Week. The new headquarters will significantly improve operational consolidation and enhance service delivery across the county. To further build on this progress, the meeting took a proactive step by resolving to submit a bill to the County Assembly for the naming of roads within the municipalities. This initiative will foster better identifiability and geo-location, contributing to greater efficiency in operations.

The meeting approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Zipline International Kenya to enhance health emergency responses using drone technology. This initiative will facilitate the distribution of essential medications and blood products to remote healthcare facilities across the county. The initial phase of this project aims to reach 84 designated health facilities, ensuring that emergency drugs and supplies can be delivered swiftly, even to locations that are difficult to access due to geographical challenges or adverse weather conditions. The targeted delivery time for these essential products is between 20 to 50 minutes, significantly improving access to critical healthcare services.

Continuing with H.E. Gladys Wanga's promise of creating a conducive environment for traders, the Cabinet approved a budgetary allocation of KES 7 million to the Department of Trade for the construction of a market shed at Nyatoto Market in Kaksingri-Ruma, Suba South. This development is expected to provide shelter for traders, enhance sanitation within the market, and improve the overall trading environment. It will also help bolster the county's revenue base and encourage local investment by creating a more conducive marketplace, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

In conclusion, as Homa Bay County prepares to host a series of national celebrations and events, the committee has called upon its citizens to embrace the spirit of hospitality and innovation, welcoming the influx of thousands of visitors. This is a unique opportunity for our local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), hoteliers, farmers, and various service providers to flourish as demand for their goods and services surges. The meeting emphasized the significance of these events in showcasing the rich cultural heritage and potential of our community. Meanwhile, the committee remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborating with other stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of all attendees during these occasions.