Jamhuri day: Deadly pandemic, crippling economy overshadow Kenya's big day

Kenya Armed forces rehearsing at Nyayo National Stadium. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

It will be a Jamuhuri Day like no other. No large crowds packing the stands at Nyayo National Stadium, or other venues across the country, waiting for government officials to read the president's speech.

Instead, only 5,000 people will be allowed into the Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, against a sitting capacity of 35,000, to ensure social distancing in keeping with Covid-19 protocols. The usual pomp and pageantry associated with the day will be replaced by a hybrid of virtual and physical celebrations as the country marks 57 years since it became a republic.