Security and traffic management measures have been intensified in Eldoret ahead of this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, at Kipchoge Keino Stadium.
Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan said security agencies had increased patrols, deployed additional officers to identified security hotspots and strengthened coordination to ensure the national event proceeds peacefully.
The security arrangements cover the stadium, designated parking areas, hotels, other accommodation facilities and critical installations expected to receive large numbers of visitors.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 19, Hassan urged motorists and visitors to follow traffic officers’ instructions, observe road signs and cooperate with security personnel to facilitate smooth movement around the city.
National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) and National Youth Service personnel will also assist in guiding members of the public, particularly during and after the ceremonial march-past.
Uniformed police officers, plain-clothes officers and traffic police have been deployed to secure the venue and its surrounding areas, with patrols expected to continue before, during and after the celebrations.
The Regional Commissioner warned individuals intending to exploit the national event to commit crimes that they would face firm action in accordance with the law.
He further described the security situation in the Rift Valley as favourable, citing progress in restoring peace in areas previously affected by banditry and other forms of insecurity.
According to Hassan, sustained security operations under the government’s Maliza Uhalifu initiative have contributed to improved stability in the North Rift, allowing communities to gradually resume normal activities, businesses to reopen and displaced residents to return home.
He said the government would continue intelligence-led and coordinated operations in areas affected by banditry and violence, targeting both perpetrators and individuals financing or facilitating criminal activities.
Hassan also called on political leaders, community elders, religious institutions, the media and members of the public to promote peaceful coexistence and reject hate speech, incitement and ethnic hostility as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
He urged Kenyans attending the Mashujaa Day celebrations to observe the law, cooperate with security officers and participate responsibly in the national event.
