The government is racing against time to complete the Ksh 900 million Wajir Stadium ahead of Madaraka Day celebrations, with time passing quickly toward the June 1 national event.
Currently at just 28 % completion, the stadium has been chosen as the main venue for the celebrations, placing immense pressure on contractors and government agencies to deliver within weeks.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, on Thursday, April 2, 2026 inspected key projects in the county to assess readiness for the big day.
During the tour, attention centred on the main stadium, which will host the celebrations, alongside other critical facilities expected to support the event.
While expressing satisfaction with the progress made so far, Omollo emphasized the need to accelerate construction works.
“We are satisfied with the progress made so far, but we must now move with greater speed to ensure all works are completed within the set timelines. This is a national event, and it must be delivered to the highest standards,” he said.
Despite the stadium being less than a third complete, the government maintains that preparations remain on track.
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Officials attribute this confidence to coordinated efforts across multiple agencies working simultaneously on different aspects of the project.
Omollo noted that preparations are being handled under a structured multi-agency framework aimed at ensuring efficiency and alignment.
“We have brought together all relevant agencies under one coordinated framework to ensure seamless delivery. Every aspect of these preparations is being closely monitored to guarantee quality, safety and timely completion,” he said.
Beyond the stadium, authorities have intensified focus on supporting infrastructure expected to handle the demands of the celebrations.
Key projects include the expansion and upgrading of Wajir International Airport, improvements to access roads, enhanced security systems, and preparation of accommodation facilities for guests.
Officials are anticipating a large turnout, including national leaders and members of the public, adding urgency to the ongoing works.
The developments in Wajir form part of a broader government strategy to rotate national celebrations across different regions.
The approach aims to promote inclusivity while using such events to accelerate development in host countries.
In Wajir, this strategy is already taking shape, with infrastructure upgrades expected to deliver long-term benefits beyond the Madaraka Day festivities.
Local leaders present during the inspection, including Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and regional security officials, stated their commitment to ensuring the county is fully prepared.
Omollo expressed confidence that the ongoing works will be completed on time and urged residents to embrace the opportunity to showcase the region.
He also invited Kenyans to attend the celebrations in Wajir, highlighting the importance of national unity.
With only weeks remaining, the county’s readiness will not only determine the success of the celebrations but also test the government’s broader vision of using national events as a catalyst for development.
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Govt spokesperson Isaac Mwaura together with other leaders during the Wajir Stadium inspection
PHOTO/MINA