President William Ruto arrives for Madaraka Day celebrations in Embu. [Samson Wire, Standard]

President William Ruto has arrived at the Moi Stadium in Embu County to preside over his very first Madaraka Day celebrations.

The president, who was accompanied by First Lady Rachael Ruto, arrived a few minutes after 11 am and inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Kenya Defence Forces.

This is the third National Day Ruto is presiding over since taking office in September 2022.

Other leaders present include Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang'ula.

The motorcade of Comoros President Azali Assoumani arrives at Moi stadium in Embu County. [Samson Wire, Standard]

Also present at the fete was Comoros President Azali Assoumani, who is the guest of honour.

Former Niger President Issoufou Mahamadaou is also among current and former African Heads of State and Government present at the celebration.

No East African Head of State is present at today's Madaraka fete, unlike in previous years.

Cabinet Secretaries Moses Kuria (Trade), Ezekiel Machogu (Education), Ababu Namwamba (Sports), and Chief Justice Martha Koome are also in attendance at the national event.