Preparations for this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County are underway, with construction of the 10,000-seater stadium set to host the national event now at 28 percent completion.

Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo, on Thursday, April 2, 2026, inspected the project in Wajir to assess progress and review preparations ahead of the June 1 celebrations.

Omollo, who chairs the Steering Committee on National Celebrations, said the government was keen on ensuring the facility and other supporting infrastructure are completed within the set timelines.

“We are satisfied with the progress made so far, but we must now move with greater speed to ensure that all works are completed within the set timelines. This is a national event, and it must be delivered to the highest standards,” he said.

Stadium construction progress

The government has adopted a multi-agency approach to coordinate preparations for the national celebration. Omollo said relevant agencies are working together under a unified framework to ensure the project is delivered on time and meets the required standards.

“We have brought together all relevant agencies under one coordinated framework to ensure seamless delivery. Every aspect of these preparations is being closely monitored,” he said.

President William Ruto announced in February that this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations would be held in Wajir County, marking the first time a national celebration will be hosted in the Northern Frontier region.

“To further advance balanced national development, we are building a 10,000-seater modern stadium in Wajir town at a cost of Ksh900 million. The facility will host this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations,” the President stated on his official X account.

Supporting infrastructure upgrades

Preparations for the national event extend beyond the stadium project. The government is also working on improving key infrastructure in the county to support the celebrations.

According to Omollo, works are underway to upgrade Wajir International Airport, improve road networks leading to the venue and strengthen security arrangements. Plans are also being made to ensure adequate accommodation for visiting guests and dignitaries.

“The preparations go beyond the stadium. We are equally focused on critical infrastructure such as the airport, road networks, security systems, and accommodation to ensure that Wajir is fully ready to host the nation,” he said.

National celebrations rotation

The government says rotating national celebrations across counties is part of a policy aimed at promoting inclusivity and ensuring different regions benefit from development associated with hosting such events.

“Taking national celebrations across the country is a deliberate policy to foster unity and ensure that every region benefits from national development. What we are seeing in Wajir is a clear demonstration of that commitment,” Omollo said.

Construction of the stadium is being supervised by the Kenya Defence Forces, with local residents involved in labour mobilisation. The facility is expected to remain a key sports venue for the county after the celebrations, supporting development of football, athletics, rugby and volleyball.

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, North Eastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno and Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura accompanied Omollo during the inspection tour.