Traders and business operators in Eldoret have welcomed the preparations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium ahead of Mashujaa Day, saying the activities have created employment opportunities and boosted local businesses.
The stadium is set to host this year’s national celebrations on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in an event expected to attract visitors from across Kenya and beyond.
One of the traders, Mark Injendi Shalo, who operates a car wash near Kipchoge Keino Stadium, narrated how his daily customers increased from three to between eight and nine following the start of construction works, boosting his business ahead of the national celebrations.
Shalo said the increase boosted his business as preparations for the national celebrations continued in Eldoret.
He expressed excitement about being part of Mashujaa Day, which will be celebrated in the city on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
Fatma Barbara, another business operator in the area, also welcomed the event, saying she looked forward to attending the celebrations.
“I’m excited to be part of Mashujaa Day, which will be happening on Tuesday, and I’m glad today we have to celebrate it here in Eldoret,” she said.
Traders Praise PS Omollo for Stadium Development
Barbara praised the Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo for the ongoing development at Kipchoge Keino Stadium, saying the project had created employment opportunities for young people and other residents.
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She said the preparations had increased economic activity in the area, enabling local business operators to benefit from the work taking place at the facility.
“I’m happy with the work because it has given everyone employment here. My team and I, the young people, are doing well here,” Barbara said.
She also commended Omollo for visiting the construction site to monitor progress, recalling an occasion when he arrived late at night while workers were still on duty.
Barbara said the stadium project had progressed well and expressed appreciation for the continued engagement with those working in the area.
Kipchoge Keino Stadium Expected to Boost Eldoret Tourism
Barbara said Kipchoge Keino Stadium could help attract more visitors to Eldoret, creating opportunities for local businesses and supporting economic growth.
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“It will help us whenever someone comes to tour here, and it will bring more visitors. We will have a lot of interaction with people from abroad, and it will help us expand in terms of the economy,” she said.
She added that the facility could attract sporting events involving teams from neighbouring countries, including Uganda and Tanzania.
Barbara also expressed hope that Eldoret would host a major sporting cup in 2027, saying she intended to attend the event.
Barbara invited residents of Eldoret and other parts of the country to attend the Mashujaa Day celebrations, saying the event was an opportunity for residents to celebrate their contributions to Kenya.
“I am a hero, you are a hero, and you are welcome,” she said.
She added that major infrastructure projects could help market Eldoret as a city and attract more visitors, benefiting businesses and the wider economy.
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