Upgrade works at the iconic Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret have reached 69 per cent completion, as preparations intensify ahead of this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations scheduled for October 20.
Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru on Thursday, September 24, 2026, inspected the ongoing works at the facility, which is being renovated under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence in readiness for the national celebrations.
The 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations will be jointly hosted by Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, with Eldoret serving as the main venue for the event.
Speaking after the inspection tour, Mariru said the project was progressing steadily and that the government remained committed to delivering the stadium within the set timelines.
“This morning, I inspected the progress of the ongoing upgrade works at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County,” he said.
According to the PS, the inspection provided an opportunity to assess progress on the ground, address emerging challenges and ensure the project remains on course.
Preparations for the national celebrations are gathering momentum, with key sections of the stadium, which will host the event, already taking shape as construction crews continue work on the facility.
Mariru noted that the Ministry of Defence has stepped up oversight of the project to guarantee that all works meet the required standards ahead of the national event.
“As the countdown to Mashujaa Day continues, we remain focused on delivering a modern sporting facility that will serve not only as the venue for this year’s national celebrations, but also as a lasting legacy for the people of the region and the country at large,” he said.
Beyond hosting Mashujaa Day, the upgraded stadium is expected to boost sports development and enhance Eldoret’s standing as one of Kenya’s leading athletics hubs. It has been earmarked as a potential alternative stadium for the 2027 African Cup of Nations that Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
The Defence PS was accompanied during the inspection by Brigadier Titus Sokobe, the Chief of Special Projects at Defence Headquarters.
Latest photos from the site show significant progress on the stadium infrastructure, underscoring the government’s push to have the venue ready in time for the national celebrations.
