Wajir town is grappling with a severe shortage of accommodation as it prepares to host national Madaraka Day celebrations led by President William Ruto next Monday.
Thousands of visitors are expected in Wajir for the event. All eight hotels in the town are fully booked, with room rates doubling to Sh3,000 per night.
Caroline Kinoti of New Lodge said government officials have reserved rooms for national guests. Hotel owner Ismael Hassan said the town lacks capacity and has begun renting private homes through June 5, 2026.
North Eastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno acknowledged that existing accommodation is insufficient for the major event. The government and county have started leasing private houses to accommodate guests.