Ithookwe Stadium and other ancillary projects in Kitui are
fast taking shape as the county heads down the home stretch to host this year’s
Mashujaa Day celebrations.
The venue is already 92 percent complete, with roofing,
seating, landscaping, and final access points set to be finalized in the coming
days, officials said.
The Principal Secretary for Internal Security, Dr. Raymond
Omollo, expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved so far, noting that
the works remain within schedule ahead of the celebrations.
During an inspection of the stadium and supporting infrastructure,
Dr. Omollo commended the contractors and agencies involved for keeping pace
with the tight deadlines and assured Kenyans that Kitui will be ready to host
the country on October 20.
“The progress we have witnessed is encouraging. We are confident
that Kitui will deliver a successful Mashujaa Day,” he said.
According to the PS, who chairs the National Celebrations
Steering Committee, the stadium has been expanded to accommodate more than
10,000 attendees and fitted with modern amenities, improved security
installations, and enhanced access for persons with disabilities.
At the Kitui Airstrip, refurbishment works are being
completed to allow for increased air traffic, including the arrival of national
leaders and visiting dignitaries.
The County Commissioner’s Residence, popularly referred to as the State Lodge, has also undergone extensive refurbishment to host President William Ruto and other guests during the national holiday.
Dr. Omollo noted that these investments will not only
guarantee a safe and comfortable celebration but will also provide the people
of Kitui with a long-term hub for sports, cultural events, and public
gatherings.
He stated:
“Beyond the festivities, the infrastructure being developed
here will remain a valuable legacy – better roads, a modernized airstrip, a
refurbished State Lodge, and an upgraded stadium that will continue to serve
the community for years to come.”
The PS also led the committee on an inspection tour of major
roads within Kitui town and the access routes leading to the stadium.
These have been upgraded by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority
(KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), covering more than 10
kilometers.
The works are designed to decongest the town, ease public
transport, and ensure effective deployment of security and emergency services.
He highlighted the broader significance of taking national
celebrations outside Nairobi, an approach he said not only deepens national
unity but also stimulates economic activity in host counties.
“When we take Mashujaa Day to the counties,” he said.
“We celebrate our heroes in an inclusive way and leave
behind tangible development.”
Kitui joins a proud list of counties such as Homa Bay,
Kwale, Bungoma, Kericho, and Embu, which have all benefited from the hosting of
national holidays as part of the government’s vision of spreading opportunities
and development equitably across the country.
Businesses, hotels, and local enterprises are already
benefiting from increased demand as preparations peak, while the infrastructure
upgrades will improve the region’s competitiveness long after the event.
Mashujaa Day, marked every October 20, remains one of
Kenya’s most significant national holidays.
It commemorates the struggle for independence, paying
tribute to the gallant men and women who sacrificed for the freedoms enjoyed
today.
At the same time, it recognizes present-day heroes in every
sector who continue to contribute to Kenya’s development and progress.
This year’s theme on Transforming Lives through Sustainable
Energy will showcase the government’s investments in expanding access to
affordable and reliable power, scaling renewable energy, and driving
industrialization as part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Present in the tour was Kitui Governor Julius Malombe,
Housing and Urban Development PS Charles Hinga, Aviation and Aerospace PS,
Teresia Mbaika, and Shipping and Maritime Affairs PS Aden Millah.
