The Ministry of Interior has issued a set of safety precautions ahead of this year’s 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations that will take place on this coming Friday, December 12, at the Nyayo Stadium.
During a media briefing on Thursday, Nairobi Regional Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo took reporters through the final preparations, urging Kenyans planning to attend the ceremony to be extra cautious, especially amidst crowds inside and outside the stadium.
Kitiyo urged the public to avoid displaying any high-value items like fancy phones, watches, and jewellery; petty criminals take advantage of big national events.
“People should be careful. Don’t use expensive phones or expose your expensive watches and jewellery in crowded areas,” he said.
What you can bring along to the stadium
Attendees can bring water, snacks, and light food into the venue, Kitiyo said, but drinks-mostly those packaged in bottles-will not be allowed inside. Security teams, he explained, want to keep screenings simple and avoid items that will delay checks.
There will be a heavy presence of police and NYS officers in and around the stadium. The personnel from the NYS will assist in guiding the public to take their seats well in advance to avoid confusion at the entry points and to prevent crowding.
“Gates open at 5am, but everybody has to be seated by 7am,” Kitiyo said. “Parking for VIPs will be inside the stadium, while all other vehicles will park on areas designated around it.”
Expected high-profile guests
The celebrations will attract several dignitaries, including invited Heads of State. Kitiyo appealed to Kenyans to be disciplined and cooperate with the officers before, during and after the function.
The update comes after the Interior Ministry confirmed, earlier in the week, that the event would remain at the Nyayo Stadium, despite initial plans pointing to the newly built Talanta Sports Stadium, which is still under construction.
This year’s theme
The Jamhuri Day celebrations of 2025 will focus on tourism and wildlife as important parts of the economy and appeals of Kenya globally. As the final rehearsals were completed and security teams deployed, the authorities urged Kenyans to turn out early, be on high alert, and in the spirit of unity and pride, celebrate the day.
