President William Ruto has issued fresh directives to his Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) with strict timelines, targeting major infrastructure projects in the Ukambani region. Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, the Head of State ordered the construction of two new stadiums and the completion of the stalled Kibwezi–Mwingi Road and Enziu Bridge.
Two New Stadiums for Ukambani
President Ruto directed Sports CS Salim Mvurya to begin plans for the construction of two new sports facilities — one in Wote, Makueni County, and another in Machakos County — modeled after Ithookwe Stadium, each costing approximately KSh 750 million.
“We built this stadium as the Government of Kenya, spending KSh 750 million, but it’s still not complete. We will wait for about a month for it to be finalized. Once everything is done, including the parking area, I’ll come back to officially open it,”
said Ruto.
He further announced that once the Ithookwe Stadium is completed, construction of the new Machakos and Wote stadiums will begin in 2026.
“This is not just for Ukambani; we’re doing similar projects across Kenya. I have also directed the Ministry of Sports to build a stadium like this one in Machakos and another in Wote, Makueni,” he added.
President Ruto emphasized that Kenya’s global reputation in athletics and sports requires expanded investment in modern sports infrastructure to nurture and showcase talent from every part of the country.
“Kenya is recognized worldwide for its sporting achievements, and that’s why we must invest in stadiums and sports infrastructure,” the President stated.
Completion of Kibwezi–Mwingi Road
In his address, President Ruto ordered Transport CS Davis Chirchir to ensure the immediate resumption and completion of the long-stalled Kibwezi–Mwingi Road, which he said is vital for trade and transport in the region.
“You asked us to build a road from Kibwezi all the way to Mwingi. Construction stopped at a place called Kwa Siku. I want to announce that we have secured funds to resume the project so that it reaches Migwani and Mbodoni and connects to the Garissa highway,”
Ruto declared.
“I have told Davis Chirchir that I do not want any more excuses about this road.”
Deadline for Enziu Bridge
The Head of State also addressed the long-delayed Enziu Bridge, where dozens of lives have been lost in past accidents. Ruto issued a firm order to the Ministry of Transport to complete the project before the February 2026 rainy season.
“We have lost many lives at the Enziu Bridge, as the governor mentioned. That bridge has become a symbol of tragedy. I want to tell the people of Ukambani that my minister is here, and I have ordered that before the rains start in February next year, that bridge must be completed,”
he said.
Economic Revival and Political Message
President Ruto attributed delays in some development projects to the economic challenges his administration inherited but assured residents that the situation has improved, allowing for the completion of stalled infrastructure.
“Now that our economy is stable, we are going to finish all projects that had been delayed,” he said.
The President also took a swipe at certain local politicians, accusing them of promoting “politics of poverty” instead of development-focused leadership.
“Some leaders have spent years spreading division instead of working for their people. This is why the region has lagged behind economically,” Ruto lamented.
He urged leaders and citizens to focus on unity and economic empowerment, saying his government remains committed to delivering tangible development across all regions.
Background
The Mashujaa Day event in Kitui marked the first time the national celebration was hosted in the Ukambani region. The Ithookwe Stadium, which hosted the event, is among the government’s flagship regional projects.
President Ruto used the platform to highlight his administration’s ongoing efforts to balance development across Kenya, particularly in regions that have historically been underfunded or overlooked.
