Contractors work round-the-clock as government races to deliver modern stadium, State Lodge and airstrip ahead of October celebrations
The Kenyan government is implementing an ambitious Sh2 billion infrastructure overhaul in Kitui County as it prepares to host this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20, 2025.
At the heart of the massive development push is the construction of a modern 10,000-seater stadium at Ithookwe, which will replace a makeshift facility previously used for agricultural shows.
The Sh800 million sports complex, modeled after Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu, will feature a presidential pavilion, international-standard track and pitch, VIP lounges, and boardrooms.
“We have been assured by both the contractor and the Sports Ministry that the stadium will be ready,” said Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo, who chairs the National Celebrations Committee. “The State Lodge and the Ithookwe Airstrip will also be completed in time for Mashujaa.”
Workers at the stadium site have been deployed in three eight-hour shifts, including weekends, under close supervision from the National Celebrations Committee to meet the October 14 handover deadline.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed that all stadium infrastructure is on track for completion.
Beyond the stadium, the government is constructing a mini State Lodge to replace the demolished County Commissioner’s residence.
President William Ruto is expected to operate from this facility during Mashujaa week and future visits to the Ukambani region.
The Ithookwe Airstrip, adjacent to the stadium, is also receiving a complete makeover with a new runway, auxiliary facilities, and modern VIP reception lounges.
Comprehensive urban upgrade
Interior PS Raymond Omollo during the inspection of construction of a modern 10,000-seater stadium at Ithookwe.
The infrastructure blitz extends throughout Kitui town, with simultaneous implementation of water and sewerage pipelines, urban road construction under the Kenya Urban Roads Authority, and comprehensive street lighting installation.
These supporting projects are budgeted at over Sh400 million.
“Several link roads are earmarked for construction, while water supply and sewerage will be improved,” Dr Omollo explained during a Saturday inspection tour of the projects.
The massive investment represents more than just preparation for a national holiday.
Dr Omollo described the projects as a testament to President Ruto’s inclusivity agenda, designed to elevate Kitui County’s development profile and attract private sector investment.
“After Mashujaa Day in October, Kitui County will be attractive to investors and all these projects will remain here for the benefit of Kitui people,” the Principal Secretary emphasized.
The development push comes after Kitui was initially slated to host Madaraka Day celebrations but was passed over due to inadequate facilities, with the event moving to Homa Bay County instead.
Local support
Kitui Governor Julius Malombe, who requested President Ruto to consider the county for hosting the national event, has pledged full cooperation with the national government to ensure uninterrupted preparations.
The projects are providing employment opportunities for hundreds of local youth, contributing to immediate economic benefits even before completion.
With just three months until Mashujaa Day, the ambitious timeline has contractors and government officials working against the clock to deliver what officials promise will be a transformational moment for Kitui County’s infrastructure and economic prospects.
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