Today, Kitui County Commissioner Mr. Kipchumba Rutto today convened a meeting with all 19 Deputy County Commissioners (DCCs) drawn from every sub-county of Kitui, to discuss the county’s preparedness for hosting this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations.

Speaking to the members of press after the meeting at his offices in Kitui town, Mr. Rutto said the discussions centered on ensuring the success of the national event scheduled for October 20th at the newly constructed Ithookwe Stadium. He emphasized that part of the agenda was planning on how Kitui will showcase its rich cultural heritage and traditional performances to the rest of the country while also mobilizing residents from all the 19 sub-counties to attend the historic occasion. “Today we met as National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) to deliberate on how we can best showcase Kitui’s cultural heritage to Kenyans during Mashujaa Day. Our focus is also on ensuring that residents from all corners of Kitui participate in this once-in-a-lifetime celebration,” he said.

The County Commissioner further highlighted the significant infrastructural developments that have come with Kitui’s selection as the host county. Foremost among them is the 10,000-seater Ithookwe Stadium, a signature project worth over Ksh. 700 million. The stadium will meet international standards and will provide a lasting legacy for sports, cultural events, and community gatherings in Kitui.

Kitui town is also receiving a major facelift. The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) are finalizing over 10 kilometers of new and rehabilitated access roads linking Ithookwe Stadium to Kitui town and the Mini State Lodge. The latter, where President William Ruto is expected to host a luncheon after the national event, is undergoing refurbishment and is expected to be completed before the end of September.

READ ALSO: Governor Malombe Hosts KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga for Talks on Implementation of MoU Between Kitui County and KWS

At the same time, the Ithookwe Airstrip runway is being rehabilitated by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). The upgrades are being fast-tracked to support Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) operations during the celebrations. “We are privileged as Kitui County to host Mashujaa Day, and this opportunity has come with tremendous infrastructural development, ranging from the new stadium to the Mini State Lodge, improved access roads, and the airstrip rehabilitation. These investments will serve Kitui residents long after the celebrations,” Mr. Rutto noted.

The County Commissioner urged Kitui residents to turn up in large numbers for the October 20th celebrations, which will be presided over by President Dr. William Ruto. He assured locals and visitors of maximum security, noting that security agencies are well-prepared to ensure a peaceful and safe environment throughout the festivities.

Mr. Kipchumba Rutto also encouraged local businesses, especially hoteliers and service providers, to take advantage of the influx of visitors expected during the celebrations. “This is a historic opportunity not only to showcase our culture but also to boost Kitui’s economy. I urge our business community to prepare adequately and make the most of this occasion,” he said.

Ends///