By Baraka Simba 
Businesses around Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret are reporting increased activity as preparations for the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations create jobs and attract more customers.
The national celebrations are scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, at the stadium in Eldoret City, Uasin Gishu County, with President William Ruto expected to preside over the event.
Local traders say the ongoing construction works and preparations have increased demand for their services, providing additional income opportunities ahead of the national celebrations.
Mark Injendi Shalo, who operates a car wash near the stadium, said his daily customer numbers had risen from three to between eight and nine since construction activities began.
The increase has offered a boost to his business as workers, contractors and other people involved in the preparations continue to operate around the facility.
Another trader, Fatma Barbara, welcomed the developments, saying the project had created employment opportunities for young people and other residents.
Barbara said she and her team had benefited from the economic activity generated by the construction works. She also praised Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo for monitoring progress at the site, recalling a visit during which workers were still on duty late at night.
She said the stadium’s redevelopment could help transform Eldoret into a destination for major sporting events, attracting visitors from across Kenya and neighbouring countries.
According to Barbara, an increase in sporting competitions and tourism activities would create further opportunities for traders, transport operators, hospitality businesses and other service providers.
She expressed hope that the facility would attract international teams, including those from Uganda and Tanzania, giving local businesses access to a wider market.
The stadium’s development is part of broader efforts to improve sports infrastructure in the North Rift region, which is widely known for producing elite athletes.
Kipchoge Keino Stadium is undergoing major reconstruction to provide modern facilities for athletics and football. The project is also expected to support Kenya’s preparations for future international sporting competitions, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The facility is scheduled to host this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, which bring together national leaders, public officials and members of the public to honour Kenyans who have contributed to the country’s development.
For Eldoret traders, the event offers an opportunity to serve visitors arriving for the celebrations while showcasing the city’s hospitality and commercial potential.
Barbara urged residents and visitors to attend the national event, saying the celebrations provided an opportunity for people to recognise their contributions to the country.
Local business operators hope the increased activity will continue beyond Mashujaa Day, with the completed stadium attracting regular sporting events, visitors and investment into Eldoret City.
Robert Mutasi 
Eldoret Leo