Security agencies have intensified patrols and traffic management in Eldoret ahead of Tuesday’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium, with authorities promising firm action against anyone who threatens public safety or disrupts the national event.
Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr Abdi Hassan said security teams had deployed additional personnel to identified hotspots and strengthened coordination to ensure the celebrations proceed in a safe, orderly and peaceful environment.
He said the arrangements cover the stadium, designated parking areas, accommodation facilities, critical installations and other locations expected to receive large numbers of visitors.
ALSO READ
The Regional Commissioner urged motorists and visitors to follow instructions from traffic officers, 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 help guide members of the public, particularly during and after the ceremonial marchpast.
Uniformed police officers, plain-clothes officers and traffic police will also be deployed to secure the venue and surrounding areas.
Hassan said patrols would continue before, during and after the celebrations, with additional personnel positioned at identified security hotspots to enable a proactive response to potential threats.
Security arrangements at hotels and other accommodation facilities have also been strengthened, with support from neighbouring counties.
“The national celebration does not give anyone immunity from the law. Anyone who engages in criminal activity, threatens public safety or disrupts peace will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” Hassan said.
The Regional Commissioner described the overall security situation in the Rift Valley as favourable, citing progress in restoring peace in areas previously affected by banditry and other forms of insecurity.
He attributed some of the gains in the North Rift to sustained security operations under the Maliza Uhalifu initiative.
According to Hassan, communities in affected areas are gradually returning to normal life, businesses are reopening and displaced residents are returning to their homes.
He said the government would continue intelligence-led and coordinated operations in areas affected by banditry and violence, targeting perpetrators as well as individuals who finance or facilitate criminal activities.
“There can be no meaningful development without security. Security is the foundation of peace, investment, trade and prosperity. Education and the delivery of public services depend on it,” he said.
Hassan emphasised the importance of cooperation among security agencies, government administrators, local leaders and members of the public in sustaining the progress made.
He also urged political leaders, community elders, religious institutions, the media and citizens to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence, particularly as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
“Our diversity is a national asset, not a source of division. Every leader and citizen has a responsibility to promote tolerance, dialogue, and mutual respect,” he said.
The Regional Commissioner urged Kenyans to reject hate speech, incitement, ethnic hostility and inflammatory language, warning that those who facilitate criminal activity would also be held accountable.
“Cooperation is essential to ensuring that peace is not temporary but a lasting condition for prosperity,” he said.
The security measures are intended to support the safe conduct of Mashujaa Day celebrations in Eldoret while maintaining public order before and after the event.
