Kenya, 20 October 2025 - Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye arrived at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County to join Kenyans in celebrating the country’s 61st Mashujaa Day, attending as the Chief Guest. The event honours Kenya’s national heroes who played a vital role in the nation’s independence and post-colonial history.
President Faye, who arrived in Kenya on Sunday evening from Kigali, Rwanda, was received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba. His visit follows an official invitation by President William Ruto.
This year’s Mashujaa Day comes at a time when the country is still in mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a pro-democracy champion.Odinga was laid to rest on Sunday in Bondo, Siaya County, during a State funeral accorded full military honours, including a 17-gun salute by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
In a statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed that the national celebrations would proceed as planned, describing the day as both a moment of national reflection and continental solidarity.“The government calls upon all Kenyans to turn out in great numbers for Mashujaa Day 2025. Let us come together as one people to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga and all our mashujaa,” Mwaura said.
During his visit, President Faye is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Ruto at State House, Nairobi, focusing on deepening political, cultural, and economic ties between Kenya and Senegal. This marks President Faye’s first official visit to Kenya since his election in March 2024, symbolising a new chapter in Senegal–Kenya relations and a shared commitment to Pan-African unity and progress.