The ongoing construction of the 10,000-seater Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui Central is in full swing, with the national government racing against time to complete the facility ahead of this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations slated for October 20, 2025.
The stadium, a key legacy project by President William Ruto’s administration, is being developed at the Ithookwe Showground with a budget of Ksh 800 million. Once completed, it will serve not only as the Mashujaa Day venue but also as a long-term sporting and community asset for the region.
During a recent meeting held on June 19 at the Kitui Governor’s Office, Governor Dr. Julius Malombe confirmed that preparations for the national celebrations are progressing well. The meeting, which brought together Kitui County leadership and Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, focused on inter-agency coordination to ensure the success of the high-profile event.
Commissioner Rotich reaffirmed the government’s commitment, saying, “This project is not only about October 20. It’s a long-term investment in Kitui’s future, youth, and economy.”
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, who toured the site recently, echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized the project’s dual purpose: providing a world-class venue for the national holiday and establishing a permanent international-standard facility to boost sports development and community programs.
In tandem with the stadium works, the nearby Ithookwe Airstrip is undergoing major upgrades to handle increased traffic during Mashujaa Day and support the region’s long-term growth. Roads leading to the venue are also being improved, and plans are underway to construct a mini State Lodge to host top dignitaries during the celebrations.
The infrastructural developments are expected to boost the local economy, open up new investment opportunities, create jobs, and elevate Kitui’s national visibility.
With just over three months remaining, all eyes are on Ithookwe as Kitui prepares to host Mashujaa Day for the first time in its history.
