Ruto Issues Historic Apology to Northern Kenya During Madaraka Day Celebrations

President William Ruto delivers a historic apology to Northern Kenya and pledges inclusive development during Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir.

Article by: Babz Abdul-Raheem.
Date: June 01,2026.

President William Ruto used the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County to deliver one of the most significant speeches of his presidency, offering a formal apology to the people of Northern Kenya for decades of marginalisation and underdevelopment.

Speaking before thousands of Kenyans at the newly constructed Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium, the President acknowledged that successive governments had failed to adequately invest in the region, leaving many communities without equal access to infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic opportunities.

Ruto said Northern Kenya had for years been treated unfairly due to perceptions that the region was too remote, insecure and difficult to develop. He described such thinking as misguided and pledged that the era of exclusion was coming to an end.

“On behalf of the nation of Kenya, I want to apologise to the people of Northern Kenya for years of marginalisation,” the President said, drawing applause from the crowd.

The Head of State reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring equitable development across all parts of the country. He highlighted ongoing investments in roads, water projects, education and security infrastructure aimed at transforming the region and integrating it more fully into the national economy.

The choice of Wajir as the host of this year's Madaraka Day celebrations was itself symbolic, marking the first time the national event has been held in Northern Kenya since independence. Leaders from the region hailed the occasion as a powerful recognition of the area's place in the country's history and future.

The President's remarks are expected to reignite conversations on historical injustices, regional inequality and the need for inclusive national development as Kenya continues its journey toward unity and shared prosperity.