Three stadiums in Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties are undergoing final preparations ahead of this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, with the main venue in Eldoret still under construction less than a month before the national event.
Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret is 68 per cent complete, while Kamariny Stadium in Iten has reached 58 per cent completion. Kapsabet Stadium is lagging at 45.4 per cent, according to the latest update from the government.
The three facilities will play a central role in the celebrations, which will be hosted across the three counties for the first time on October 20.
Kipchoge Keino Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 15,043, will host the main event, while Kamariny and Kapsabet stadiums can each accommodate 10,000 people.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo said the government was confident the preparations would be completed in time, despite the remaining construction work.
“As Chair of the Steering Committee, I am confident that we will be ready for the celebrations. There is still considerable work to be done,” Omollo said.
The stadium projects are being handled by the Ministry of Sports, with the Ministry of Defence providing support and supervision.
Roads and water projects
Alongside the stadium construction, the government is upgrading roads in Eldoret City, Kapsabet and Iten as part of efforts to improve infrastructure ahead of the celebrations.
Water connectivity and other essential services are also being improved to support the expected influx of visitors.
Omollo said the preparations had received support from the governments of Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet, as well as elected leaders from the three counties.
He thanked governors, Members of Parliament, Members of County Assemblies and other leaders for their cooperation since the decision to host the event across the region was made.
Thematic week to begin October 13
The celebrations will feature a thematic week running from October 13 to 18 under the theme “Security, Sports and the Finance Sector (The Economy).”
Omollo urged residents to prepare to welcome Kenyans from across the country and visiting dignitaries expected to join President William Ruto for the national event.
He said the celebrations would provide an opportunity to showcase the region’s contribution to sports, security and the economy.
The North Rift region is known for producing world-class athletes, particularly in long-distance running, while agriculture and trade remain important parts of its economic activities.
Government addresses security concerns
Meanwhile, Omollo said security agencies were working to address recent incidents of banditry and cattle rustling in parts of the country.
He acknowledged that the situation remained a concern despite progress made through a multi-agency approach.
“Our security teams are on the ground and are working closely with leaders in Samburu, Isiolo and parts of Meru to address the situation,” he said.
The Principal Secretary added that the government would take further action where necessary.
“Where the circumstances require review or further intervention by the Ministry or the Government, we will take the necessary action,” he said.
He urged residents in affected areas to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
The government says it is continuing to coordinate construction, infrastructure improvements and security arrangements as the three counties prepare to host the national celebrations on October 20.
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