PS Omollo assesses Madaraka Day preparations in Wajir as stadium hits 28% completion

North Eastern regional commissioner John Otieno, PS for Internal Raymond Omollo and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi during an inspection of the Wajir Stadium in Wajir county on April 2 /MINA

The Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration and Chair of the Steering Committee on National Celebrations, Raymond Omollo, was this morning in Wajir County for an inspection tour to assess the progress of construction and readiness of key facilities ahead of this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations scheduled for June 1, 2026.

Omollo noted that preparations were steadily gaining momentum, with the main stadium currently at 28 per cent completion.

While expressing satisfaction with the progress so far, the PS made it clear that the pace of work must now pick up significantly to meet the set timelines.

“We are satisfied with the progress made so far, but we must now move with greater speed to ensure all works are completed within the set timelines. This is a national event, and it must be delivered to the highest standards,” he said.

Despite the stadium being less than a third complete, the government maintains that preparations remain on track, pointing to coordinated efforts across multiple agencies working simultaneously on different aspects of the project.

Government spokesman Isaac Mwaura, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi during an inspection of the Wajir Stadium in Wajir county on April 2 /MINA

Interior PS Raymond Omollo and commissioner John Otieno with contractors during an inspection of the Wajir stadium in Wajir county on April 2 /MINA

“We have brought together all relevant agencies under one coordinated framework to ensure seamless delivery. Every aspect of these preparations is being closely monitored to guarantee quality, safety and timely completion,” he said.

Beyond the stadium, focus has shifted to supporting infrastructure expected to carry much of the weight during the celebrations.

These include the expansion and upgrading of Wajir International Airport, improvements to access roads, strengthening of security systems and preparation of accommodation facilities for guests.

Government spokesman Dr. Isaac Mwaura(left) Dr. Raymond Omollo and Wajir governor Ahmed Abdullahi among other officials and security during an inspection of ongoing Madaraka Day stadium construction works in Wajir County on April 2, 2026./MINA

Officials are anticipating a large turnout, including national leaders and members of the public, adding further pressure to deliver multiple projects within a limited timeframe.

The developments are part of a broader government strategy that goes beyond hosting a single event.

By rotating national celebrations across different regions, authorities seek to promote inclusivity while using such occasions to accelerate development in host counties.

In Wajir, that approach is already visible, with infrastructure upgrades expected to leave a lasting impact long after the Madaraka Day festivities.

The ongoing ongoing Madaraka Day stadium construction works in Wajir county on April 2 /MINA

Local leaders present during the inspection, including Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and regional security officials, reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the county is fully prepared.

Omollo expressed confidence that the ongoing works will be completed ahead of schedule and urged residents to embrace the opportunity to showcase the region.

He also invited Kenyans to attend the celebrations in Wajir, underscoring the significance of national unity.

Government spokesman Isaac Mwaura(L) Interior PS Raymond Omollo and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi among other officials and security during an inspection of the Wajir Stadium in Wajir county on April 2 /MINA