IN PICTURES: Ruto leads Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale

President William Ruto arrives at Kwale Stadium for the 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

President William Ruto arrived at Kwale Stadium shortly before 10 a.m. Sunday to lead the 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations.

The event marked the first time Kwale County hosted the national holiday with the newly constructed 10,200-seater stadium as the venue.

Ruto was received by Deputy President-elect Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and  Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani. 

President Wlliam Ruto inspects guard of honour at Kwale Stadium during Mashujaa Day celebrations. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

Other leaders present included National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi and several cabinet secretaries.

 Thousands of Kenyans flocked to the stadium to witness the celebrations themed around affordable housing. The programme featured the unveiling of new government initiatives under the affordable housing agenda.

Some of the attendees of this year's Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

The event will see 142 heroes recognised across 14 categories for their contributions to sports, philanthropy, statesmanship and indigenous cultures.

Mashujaa Day celebrations underway in Kwale. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

Security is heightened across the Coast region in preparation for the celebrations.