NAIROBI, Kenya- Security agencies have intensified patrols and deployed additional officers in Eldoret ahead of Tuesday’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium.
Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr Abdi Hassan said on Monday that the measures cover the stadium, designated parking areas, hotels, critical installations and other places expected to receive large numbers of visitors.
Uniformed and plain-clothes police officers, traffic police, National Government Administration Officers and National Youth Service personnel will be deployed to help secure the venue and guide members of the public.
The NYS and administration officers are expected to assist particularly during and after the ceremonial march-past.
Hassan urged motorists and visitors to follow directions from traffic officers, observe road signs and cooperate with security personnel to ease movement around the city.
The national celebrations will be held at Kipchoge Keino Stadium on October 20, with the event jointly hosted by Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties.
The main ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10am, according to the Kenya News Agency.
Patrols to continue after celebrations
Hassan said security patrols would continue before, during and after the event, with extra personnel sent to areas identified as security hotspots.
Arrangements at hotels and other accommodation facilities have also been strengthened, with support from neighbouring counties.
He warned that anyone who uses the national event to commit crimes, threaten public safety or disrupt peace would face action under the law.
“The national celebration does not give anyone immunity from the law,” Hassan said, adding that agencies were coordinating to respond to security concerns.
The regional commissioner described the security situation in the Rift Valley as favourable, citing progress in areas previously affected by banditry and other insecurity.
He attributed some of the gains in the North Rift to sustained operations under the government’s Maliza Uhalifu initiative, saying businesses were reopening and some displaced residents had returned home.
Hassan said the government would continue intelligence-led operations against people involved in violence, including those who finance or facilitate criminal activity.
He called for cooperation between security agencies, administrators, local leaders and residents to maintain stability.
The statement also included a call for political and community leaders to promote peaceful coexistence as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
Hassan urged the public to reject hate speech, incitement and ethnic hostility, and asked residents and visitors to celebrate Mashujaa Day responsibly.
Mashujaa Day is observed annually on October 20 to honour Kenyans who have contributed to the country’s independence, development and public life.
This year’s event is being held in Eldoret, with activities across the three co-host counties in the days leading up to the national ceremony.
Organisers have said the programme includes activities focused on security, sports and economic development.
The government has urged people attending the celebrations to cooperate with officers and follow official instructions throughout the event.
