By Mumo Judah | Wajir County | May 29, 2026
Final preparations are underway in Wajir County as Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya officially handed over the newly completed 10,000-seater Wajir Stadium, ahead of the historic Madaraka Day 2026 national celebrations.
The stadium, which has been under construction as part of the government’s infrastructure development and regional inclusion agenda, is expected to serve as a key venue for official pre-events, cultural exhibitions, and large public gatherings linked to this year’s national celebrations.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the completion of the facility marks a significant milestone in expanding sports infrastructure across the country, particularly in underserved regions. He noted that the stadium will not only host national celebrations but also serve as a long-term investment for youth talent development in Northern Kenya.
Mvurya emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring equitable development, stating that sports infrastructure plays a critical role in promoting unity, talent identification, and economic activity at the county level.
Local leaders in Wajir County welcomed the project, describing it as a transformative development that will boost sports participation, provide a modern venue for regional events, and reduce the need for long-distance travel for major competitions.
Security and logistical teams have already intensified preparations ahead of the Madaraka Day celebrations, with county and national government officials coordinating arrangements to manage expected crowds, VIP attendance, and nationwide media coverage.
The stadium handover comes at a crucial time, as authorities finalize last-minute arrangements for the national event, which is expected to attract high-level government officials, cultural troupes, and delegations from across the country.
The new facility features a modern playing surface, spectator seating, floodlights, changing rooms, and supporting infrastructure designed to meet national stadium standards. It is expected to host football matches, athletics events, and community activities once fully operational after the celebrations.
Officials say the choice of Wajir as a key host location for part of the Madaraka Day 2026 activities reflects the government’s broader strategy of decentralizing national events and promoting inclusion of frontier counties in national development and celebrations.
Residents have expressed excitement over the stadium, noting that it will significantly boost the local economy through increased business opportunities, tourism, and sports-related activities.
As the countdown to Madaraka Day continues, final touches are being made across the stadium and surrounding areas, including security installations, seating arrangements, and ceremonial preparations to ensure a smooth and historic national celebration in Wajir County.
