The Ithookwe Stadium project in Kitui County is now 80 percent complete, as Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo assured Kenyans that preparations for this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations are on track.
Omollo, who toured the site on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, expressed confidence that the facility will be ready for the national holiday on October 20.
“Ithookwe Stadium is at an advanced stage of completion. I can assure the people of Kitui and the entire nation that by Mashujaa Day, this stadium will be ready to host Kenyans,” he stated.
The PS led a high-level delegation to inspect ongoing works at the Ithookwe Stadium, the Kitui State Lodge, and the rehabilitation of Ithookwe Airstrip, all critical infrastructure projects being fast-tracked ahead of the celebrations.
This year’s Mashujaa Day will mark the first time Kitui County hosts the national fete, a move that has been welcomed with excitement by local leaders and residents.
Omollo emphasized that the government is keen to ensure everything is in place for a smooth and memorable celebration.
“It is historic for Kitui County to host a national day of this magnitude. We are working around the clock to ensure the facilities meet the standards befitting such a national event,” he said.
He noted that apart from the stadium, the government is also upgrading the Kitui State Lodge, which will accommodate President William Ruto and other visiting dignitaries, as well as rehabilitating Ithookwe Airstrip to ease transport logistics.
According to engineers on site, the 20,000-capacity Ithookwe Stadium has already seen completion of key structural works, including the terraces, VIP stands, and essential utilities. The remaining works include installation of seats, landscaping, and final touches on the pitch.
Dr. Omollo added: “We are at 80 percent completion. The remaining 20 percent is what I would call finishing touches, things like painting, landscaping, and installation of fittings. These will be completed within the set timelines.”
He also assured residents that the national and county governments are working closely to ensure ancillary services such as water, electricity, and road access to the stadium are enhanced before the big day.
Local leaders present during the inspection lauded the government’s commitment, saying the projects will leave a lasting legacy in the region. Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe, who accompanied the PS, said the developments would boost the county’s profile and spur economic growth.
“For decades, Kitui has not hosted a national event of this stature. The investment in infrastructure such as this stadium and the airstrip will not only serve Mashujaa Day but also benefit our people for years to come,” said Governor Malombe.
The PS assured that Mashujaa Day is more than a celebration of heroes; it is also a moment to unite Kenyans. “As we prepare for October 20, let us remember that Mashujaa Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of our forefathers and the progress we have made as a nation. Kitui will host not just an event, but a celebration of unity and patriotism,” he said.
The PS further noted that security preparations are ongoing to ensure the safety of all dignitaries and attendees.
With just under a month to go, Kitui County is bracing to welcome thousands of Kenyans and dignitaries from across the nation for the historic Mashujaa Day celebrations.
