NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto has launched the construction of a 10,000‑seater modern stadium in Wajir town, a landmark facility that the government says will host this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, the first time a national holiday will be commemorated in Kenya’s Northern Frontier.
Speaking during a ceremony in Wajir where he concluded the national rollout of the NYOTA (National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement) capital disbursement component, President Ruto said the Sh900 million investment reflects the government’s commitment to balanced national development and to uplifting historically underinvested regions.
“This facility will host this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, the first time a national holiday will be commemorated in the Northern Frontier,” he said.
To further advance balanced national development, we are building a 10,000-seater modern stadium in Wajir town at a cost of KSh900 million.The facility will host this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, the first time a national holiday will be commemorated in the Northern
A First for Northern Kenya
The groundbreaking marks a historic moment for Wajir County and the broader North Eastern region. Madaraka Day, celebrated annually on June 1, commemorates Kenya’s attainment of internal self‑rule in 1963 and is traditionally marked with national addresses, cultural performances, and parades.
Hosting the event in Wajir underscores efforts to decentralise national celebrations and promote development beyond Kenya’s central highlands and western corridor.
“This is a clear message that all Kenyans are equal and entitled to equal recognition and development,” President Ruto said.
The President stressed that infrastructure projects like the stadium serve not only sporting and cultural purposes but also social cohesion and regional inclusion.
What the Stadium Will Include
The new facility — now entering its initial construction phase — is expected to feature:
- Seating for 10,000 spectators
- A modern pitch suitable for football and athletic events
- Supporting infrastructure to host large public gatherings, ceremonies, and possibly regional tournaments
Site preparations have already moved forward, with the Wajir County Government and national authorities coordinating logistics ahead of full‑scale works. Detailed technical surveys were initiated earlier this month ahead of contractor mobilisation.
Part of Broader Investment Strategy
The Wajir Stadium project ties into the government’s broader agenda of expanding sports infrastructure and public facilities nationwide.
Across Kenya, similar initiatives, from upgrades to existing arenas to new stadium projects, are being undertaken to nurture talent, promote community engagement and spur economic opportunities.
For instance, the national government recently took over stalled work on the Mombasa Stadium to ensure its renovation, positioning it for use in major competitions and boosting sports tourism.
Local leaders hailed the announcement as a major step toward boosting the local economy, creating jobs during construction, and drawing visitors and event organisers to the county.
The stadium is expected to host not only official national events but also community sports, cultural festivals, and regional competitions, which could generate sustained economic activity for Wajir and neighbouring counties.
