Nairobi, June 1 -- Long before President William Ruto arrived with an apology and a bag of goodies for the people of northern Kenya to mark the 63rd Madaraka Day on Monday, Wajir had already made history.

Residents began arriving at the new 10,000-capacity stadium as early as 4.30am, many from far-flung parts of the county, to witness the first national celebrations held in the north.

By 6.30am, all the seats had been occupied and thousands more stood on the terraces as the sweltering heat intensified.

Hawkers, children, elders and local leaders mingled in an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation, aware they were witnessing a moment that would be etched into the region's history.

In one of the most striking displays, the children ...