Kitui County is undergoing a rapid facelift as the national government channels investment into infrastructure projects ahead of the Mashujaa Day celebrations scheduled for 20 October.
A new 10,000-seater stadium is at the centre of preparations and will serve as the main venue for the national holiday. Roads are being upgraded, new markets constructed and work has resumed on the long-stalled Umaa dam.
The government also says affordable housing units will be ready in time for the commemorations.
Livestock principal secretary Jonathan Mueke, who toured Kitui alongside county officials, said the projects demonstrate the administration’s commitment to the region’s development.
“The stadium construction is progressing well, and we urge the contractor to ensure timely completion before Mashujaa Day,” he told reporters.
He also encouraged youth groups to take advantage of the new facility by forming sports teams to nurture talent and generate income.
At Umaa dam, a Sh1bn project, Mueke stressed that water security remained a priority. The government expects the dam to serve both domestic and irrigation needs once complete.
“We are awaiting the e-procurement system to process payments within two weeks. I will appeal to President William Ruto to allocate additional funds to ensure completion within two and a half years,” he said.
Other projects include a new sewer system for Kitui town and four major roadworks such as the Chuluni-Zombe and Kibwezi-Kitui-Kabati-Mbondoni roads.
The state has also set aside funds to compensate landowners affected by highway construction.
Officials argue the projects reflect broader government efforts to strengthen infrastructure in underdeveloped counties. Critics, however, note that Mashujaa Day preparations often prompt rushed, showcase-style investments. For residents of Kitui, the test will be whether these projects endure beyond the fanfare of October.
