The construction of the Ithookwe stadium in Kitui county is on course ahead of this year’s Mashujaa Day National celebrations on 20th October.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the facility yesterday, the Cabinet Secretary, Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, expressed satisfaction with its progress `and reaffirmed the completion of the stadium on time and per the set government standards.
“As directed by H.E. President William Ruto, all sports facilities across the country must meet uniform and international standards that allow us to nurture and grow talent from the grassroots to the national level. Ithookwe Stadium will be a game-changer for this region, not just for hosting Mashujaa Day but also as a long-term sports development hub,” he added.
The stadium, a flagship infrastructure project for the region, will have a seating capacity of 10,000 and is set to host the 2025 Mashujaa Day national celebrations.
The CS further noted that the facility will be upgraded to accommodate a wider range of sports, including athletics, after the national fate.
“As directed by H.E. President William Ruto, all sports facilities across the country must meet uniform and international standards that allow us to nurture and grow talent from the grassroots to the national level. Ithookwe Stadium will be a game-changer for this region, not just for hosting Mashujaa Day but also as a long-term sports development hub,” he added.
Mvurya lauded the exemplary cooperation between the National Government and the County Government of Kitui, under the leadership of Governor Julius Malombe, noting that such collaboration is vital for successful project delivery. “This project is not just a national milestone; it is a transformational opportunity for the local community. The people of Kitui stand to benefit from improved infrastructure, job creation, and long-term sporting and economic opportunities,” he stated.
He also emphasised the fundamentality of local participation, calling on the contractor to prioritise the employment of local youth and skilled artisans.
“Our goal is not just to build stadiums, but to empower communities. I have directed the contractor and relevant agencies to ensure that local residents are engaged and benefit directly from this project, both in terms of employment and future opportunities,” Hon. Mvurya remarked.
During the tour, the Deputy Governor of Kitui County commended the government for its commitment and progress on the stadium, urging residents to support the project and maintain the spirit of cooperation. His sentiments were echoed by the Speaker of the County Assembly, Kevin Kinengo Katisya, who reaffirmed the County Assembly’s support for the initiative.
The CS was accompanied by the County Commissioner, members of the County Security Team, and key county leadership, including the Deputy Speaker of the County Assembly, CEC Members led by the CEC Chair for Sports, and several Members of the County Assembly.
