ELDORET, Kenya — Preparations for this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations have gathered pace across Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi and Uasin Gishu counties, with the main venue, Kipchoge Keino Stadium, now 68 per cent complete.
The celebrations will be held on October 20, with the three counties hosting the event for the first time.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr Raymond Omollo said the region was making progress ahead of the national celebrations, although significant work remained.
Kipchoge Keino Stadium Leads Preparations
Kipchoge Keino Stadium, which will host the main Mashujaa Day celebrations, has a seating capacity of 15,043 and is currently 68 per cent complete.
Other stadium projects are also progressing, with Kapsabet Stadium at 45.4 per cent completion and Kamariny Stadium at 58 per cent.
Both Kapsabet and Kamariny stadiums have a seating capacity of 10,000.
The stadium works are being undertaken by the Ministry of Sports, with support and supervision from the Ministry of Defence.
Thematic Week Set for October
Omollo said the Thematic Week Celebrations will run from October 13 to 18 under the theme “Security, Sports and the Finance Sector (The Economy).”
He said preparations were also underway to improve roads in Eldoret City, Kapsabet and Iten, alongside improvements to water connectivity and other infrastructure.
The activities are expected to provide an opportunity to showcase the region’s contribution to sports, security and the economy.
Government Confident of Readiness
Omollo, who chairs the Mashujaa Day Steering Committee, said the Government was confident the preparations would be completed in time for the celebrations.
“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,” he said.
He praised technical teams working on the projects, saying they had worked extended hours to advance preparations.
The PS also commended the county governments of Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi and Uasin Gishu for supporting the preparations.
Counties Prepare to Welcome Visitors
Omollo urged residents across the three counties to prepare to welcome Kenyans from across the country as well as visiting dignitaries expected to attend the national celebrations.
President William Ruto is expected to preside over the Mashujaa Day event.
The hosting arrangement will bring the national celebrations to the North Rift region, with activities spread across the three counties.
Government Reports Progress Against Banditry
Omollo also addressed recent incidents of banditry and cattle rustling affecting parts of the region.
He said the Government had made progress through a multi-agency security approach but expressed concern over incidents reported in recent days.
“Our security teams are on the ground and are working closely with leaders in Samburu, Isiolo and parts of Meru to address the situation,” Omollo said.
He added that the Government would take further action where circumstances required additional intervention.
Residents Urged to Remain Calm
The PS urged residents in affected areas to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
He called on communities to cooperate with security agencies to prevent further loss of lives and livelihoods.
The security measures come as preparations for Mashujaa Day continue, with the Government seeking to complete infrastructure and venue works before thousands of visitors and national leaders arrive in the region.
