Preparations for this year's Mashujaa Day celebrations are progressing in Kenya, with events set to take place across Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, and Uasin Gishu counties on October 20. The celebrations will be hosted across the three counties for the first time. The Thematic Week Celebrations will run from October 13 to 18, under the theme "Security, Sports and the Finance Sector (The Economy)."
The Kipchoge Keino Stadium, which will host the main celebrations, has a seating capacity of 15,043 and is 68% complete. Other stadiums, including Kapsabet Stadium and Kamariny Stadium, both with a capacity of 10,000, are 45.4% and 58% complete, respectively. The stadiums are being developed by the Ministry of Sports, with support and supervision from the Ministry of Defence.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo stated that work is also underway to improve roads in Eldoret City, Kapsabet, and Iten, as well as enhance water connectivity and other infrastructure. He expressed confidence that the celebrations will be ready, despite considerable work remaining. Dr. Omollo thanked the technical team and county governments for their support.
Dr. Omollo commended the county governments of Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, and Uasin Gishu for their continued support and thanked county leaders, Members of County Assemblies, Governors, Members of Parliament, and other leaders for their collaboration. He urged residents to prepare to welcome Kenyans from across the country and visiting dignitaries who will join the President for the celebrations.
The occasion will provide an opportunity to showcase the region's contribution to sports, security, and the economy. Dr. Omollo also addressed recent incidents of banditry and cattle rustling, stating that the Government has made significant progress through a multi-agency approach. He expressed concern over recent events and urged residents in affected areas to remain calm and work with security agencies.
Dr. Omollo stated that security teams are on the ground, working closely with leaders in Samburu, Isiolo, and parts of Meru to address the situation. He assured that the Ministry or the Government will take necessary action where circumstances require review or further intervention. The Principal Secretary urged residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands and work with security agencies to prevent further loss of livelihoods and lives.
The Mashujaa Day celebrations will highlight the region's achievements in security, sports, and the economy. With the Kipchoge Keino Stadium nearing completion, the event is expected to be a significant success. The government has called for continued support from county governments and residents to ensure a successful celebration.
Key points
- The Kipchoge Keino Stadium is 68% complete, with a seating capacity of 15,043.
- The celebrations will be hosted across Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, and Uasin Gishu counties for the first time.
- The Thematic Week Celebrations will run from October 13 to 18, under the theme "Security, Sports and the Finance Sector (The Economy)."
