This year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations, following the government’s tradition of themed national events, adopted the 2025 theme: Tourism, Wildlife & MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions).
The festivities at Nyayo National Stadium were marked by electrifying performances that brought together music lovers and artists from across the country.
Artists from diverse genres lit up the stage, delivering vibrant performances that showcased Kenya’s rich musical landscape.
Standout acts included Wadagliz, Iyanii, Samdee, Trio Mio, Moji Short Babaa, and Elisha Toto, each bringing a unique sound that added colour and energy to the national celebrations.
Comedian and entertainer Captain Otoyo Sibuor was among the first to capture the spotlight.
His humorous portrayal of everyday Kenyan habits, mannerisms, and social behaviours sparked laughter throughout the venue.
Beyond entertainment, the artists aligned their performances with this year’s national theme by promoting tourism-focused messages.
They encouraged Kenyans to explore the country’s lesser-known wonders, from national parks and lakes to deserts and cultural heritage sites, highlighting Kenya’s beauty and potential as a global destination.
The musical lineup further elevated the energy of the day.
Popular musician Iyanii thrilled the crowd with his hit Donjo Maber, performed alongside Dufla. Wadagliz set the tone for the celebrations with his track Anguka Nayo, blending rich vocals with rhythmic Afro-fusion beats that had the President and the audience on their feet. Released a year ago, Anguka Nayo has amassed over 13 million views and inspired viral TikTok challenges.
Iyanii’s stage presence and vocal versatility mesmerised the audience, earning loud cheers and chants from enthusiastic fans. His Donjo Maber, released five months ago, has already reached 15 million views on YouTube.
Sam Dee’s performance of his recently released Baba Oyee (Forever Hero) evoked memories of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga, drawing heartfelt applause from the crowd.
Other notable performers included Christine Wambui, Brandy Maina, Gudahman, Pascal Bill, Zzero Sufuri, Delvis Akoth, Watendawilli, and several more, each contributing to the festive atmosphere.
Closing the performances, Guardian Angel delivered a powerful set with his hit Nadeka, combining his signature contemporary sound with live instruments and vibrant choreography. His performance transformed the venue into a full-scale celebration, leaving the crowd buzzing long after the final note.
Together, the artists presented an unforgettable cultural showcase, reflecting creativity, national identity, and the shared joy of Jamhuri Day. Among the notable speeches, Governor Johnson Sakaja expressed gratitude and invited Kenyans to Uhuru Park for the Nairobi Festival, scheduled from 12th to 14th December.