The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Vihiga County’s selection to host the 2026 Labour Day celebrations signals a major departure from Kenya’s long-standing traditions.
For the first time since independence, the national event is being staged outside Nairobi.
Government officials, including Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, say the move is part of efforts to decentralise national celebrations and take them closer to the people.
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Relocating the event from the capital aims to strengthen national unity by giving different regions a chance to directly host and participate in key state functions.
According to Francis Atwoli, the decision followed a formal request by the Vihiga County government under Governor Wilber Ottichilo, which was later approved by President William Ruto.
Governor Ottichilo welcomed the move, describing it as historic and a step toward taking national events to the grassroots, with hopes that other counties will host similar celebrations in the future.
The event is being held at Chavakali Boys High School, a venue chosen after thorough inspections to ensure it meets capacity and security requirements.
It also offers an opportunity to showcase the role of workers from Western Kenya, especially those in agriculture—such as tea and sugar farming—and the region’s hospitality sector.
Amid speculation that the decision was influenced by Atwoli’s roots, he clarified that he is from neighbouring Kakamega County and emphasized that the move reflects a broader government plan to rotate national celebrations across different regions.
