Kitui County is set to host this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at the new Ithookwe Stadium, a project that is now about 80% complete. The KES 700 million facility will be ready by October 6, just in time for the national holiday on October 20. The stadium will seat 10,000 fans and is being built in phases. So far, KES 299 million has been spent, with the main works remaining including the pavilion, perimeter wall, and other support facilities. Roads around the stadium and the nearby Kitui Airstrip are also being upgraded to improve access during and after the celebrations. Speaking after an inspection, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya expressed confidence in the progress, noting that the stadium will be more than just a venue for Mashujaa Day. “It will serve as a hub for talent development and grassroots sports in Kitui and beyond,” he said.
After the celebrations, the facility will receive more upgrades, including a tartan track, modern changing rooms, and other amenities to meet standards for both local and international sporting events. The Ithookwe project is part of President William Ruto’s plan to build or upgrade 30 stadiums nationwide to boost grassroots sports. Other major works include Talanta Sports City in Nairobi, which is now over 50% complete, and renovations at Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums to meet CAF and FIFA standards ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
For Kitui, the Ithookwe Stadium is more than concrete and steel. It represents opportunity, jobs, and growth for the local community, while giving young people a platform to showcase their talent. The heavy equipment industry continues playing a central role in delivering such transformative projects across the country. Read the full article here.