Kenyans flock in at Ithookwe Stadium to celebrate Mashujaa day/HANDOUTHundreds of Kenyans have made their way to Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, the venue of this year’s Mashujaa Day national celebrations.
From as early as dawn, crowds were seen streaming into the stadium, braving long queues and tight security checks to be part of the historic day dedicated to honoring Kenya’s heroes.
The Ministry of Interior said they epect atleast 20,000 attendees in the 10,000 capacity stadium.
The stadium, decorated in national colors, offered a striking picture of patriotism as Kenyans arrived in droves, draped in flags, face paint, and outfits that celebrated the national identity.
Some members of the public went as far as painting their bodies in black, red, green, and white—the colors of the Kenyan flag—while children proudly wore their school sports kits and miniature flags in hand.
The festive mood was unmistakable.
Security was a central feature of the day, with hundreds of officers stationed both inside and outside the venue to ensure order.
Kenyans flock in Ithooke Stadium in Kitui/SCREENGRABAs early as 8 am, heavy police presence was evident, with officers guiding crowds into designated entry points, screening attendees, and maintaining an orderly flow.
Despite the large numbers, the atmosphere remained calm and orderly.
At the heart of the stadium, preparations for the official programme had already been finalised.
The main podium, decorated in traditional and modern symbols of Kenyan heritage, stood ready for the arrival of President William Ruto and other dignitaries.
A choir, dressed in colorful attire, kept the crowd entertained with patriotic songs that echoed across the venue, further fueling the anticipation.
The melodies were met with rhythmic claps and ululations, adding to the lively atmosphere.
The celebrations are not just a national affair but on that goes beyond the Kenyan borders.
Several high-profile guests are expected, among them Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who will serve as the chief guest during the event.
Mozambique Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levy is also among the dignitaries expected.
Their attendance underscores Kenya’s growing influence in regional and continental affairs. It also highlighted Mashujaa Day not only as a remembrance of Kenya’s own heroes but as a moment of shared African solidarity.
By mid-morning, excitement was building up as the crowd awaited the arrival of national leaders.
President William Ruto is expected to lead the country in paying tribute to Kenya’s freedom fighters and modern-day heroes, including men and women who continue to shape the nation’s growth in politics, culture, sports, and innovation.
As the sun rose higher over Ithooke Stadium, the sight of hundreds filling the stands captured the significance of the day.
This comes even as Interior Principal Secretary, Raymond Omollo confirmed that preparations for this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations are complete, with the stadium fully ready to host the national event.
“As the nation continues to celebrate the life and legacy of one of its greatest heroes, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, a true Shujaa whose courage and conviction shaped Kenya's destiny, the spirit of endurance he championed lives on in the government projects that continue to unite and uplift our people,” Omollo said.
