Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo said Sports Kenya was overseeing the stadium works, alongside improvements to access roads serving the facility.
The upgraded stadium is expected to have a capacity of between 10,000 and 15,000 spectators. Planned facilities include an eight-lane tartan athletics track, a standard football pitch, changing rooms and a VIP pavilion.
A subsequent phase will provide accommodation for athletes, according to Omollo.
The stadium’s redevelopment is expected to provide athletes training in Iten with access to an athletics track for speed training and competition preparation without having to travel elsewhere for such facilities.
Iten is an established high-altitude training destination that attracts athletes and coaches, including international competitors preparing for road races and track events.
The upgraded facility could also create business opportunities for hotels, training camps and other enterprises that serve athletes, coaches and visitors.
Beyond the stadium, three link roads and street lighting are being developed to improve access to the facility and movement around Iten.
Omollo said the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration was supporting efforts to maintain security as infrastructure development creates opportunities for increased economic activity and tourism in the region.
The stadium’s construction had stalled for years, leaving the facility unfinished despite its significance to a town associated with distance running and elite athletics training.
The completion timeline and total cost of the current works were not provided in Omollo’s statement.
Once completed, the stadium is expected to provide a venue for athletics training and sporting events while supporting businesses that depend on Iten’s reputation as a training destination.
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