Deputy President-elect Kithure Kindiki received President William Ruto in Kwale ahead of the Mashujaa Day celebrations on Sunday.
Kindiki received the Head of State at the Kwale County Commissioner’s residence.
Kindiki was joined by other leaders including Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and Governor Fatuma Achani among other leaders.
The country is marking its 61st Mashujaa celebrations.
The day is a tribute to those who significantly contributed to Kenya’s struggle for independence from colonial rule.
It is a day to honor and celebrate the bravery and sacrifices of the Kenyan people who fought for their freedom.
Security has been beefed up in the larger Coast region due to the celebrations.
It is also the first time Kwale County is hosting the event in the newly built 10,200-seater Kwale Stadium as the venue.
During the ceremony, 142 heroes will be recognised across 14 categories, including sports, philanthropy, statesmanship, and indigenous cultures. Some of the heroes will receive posthumous recognition after a thorough vetting process.
Principal Secretary for Culture and Heritage, Ummi Bashir, the selected heroes have made significant contributions to society, often risking their lives to benefit their communities, with some receiving global recognition for their efforts.
The event, themed around affordable housing, is expected to draw thousands, including President William Ruto, who will honour 142 heroes for their contributions to the nation.
The day’s programme will also feature the unveiling of key government initiatives under the affordable housing agenda.
Several Cabinet Secretaries have also arrived at the celebrations including Aden Duale (Environment), Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports), Julius Ogamba (Education), Rebecca Miano (Tourism) and Justin Muturi (Public Service), among others.
Several members of parliament are also present as well as Coast Governors including Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir (Mombasa), Gideon Mung’ aro (Kilifi) and Lamu’s Issa Timamy, among others.
