Security, traffic measures in place ahead of Mashujaa Day fete in Eldoret

Security agencies have intensified patrols and deployed additional personnel in Eldoret ahead of Tuesday’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium.

Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Abdi Hassan said comprehensive security and traffic management measures had been put in place to ensure the national event proceeds peacefully.

Hassan said the measures cover the stadium, designated parking areas, hotels, other accommodation facilities and critical installations expected to receive large numbers of visitors.

National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) and National Youth Service personnel will help guide members of the public, particularly during and after the ceremonial march-past.

Uniformed police officers, plain-clothes officers and traffic police have also been deployed to secure the venue and surrounding areas.

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.

He said patrols would continue before, during and after the celebrations, with additional officers deployed to identified security hotspots. Security arrangements at hotels and other accommodation facilities have also been strengthened, with support from neighbouring counties.

Hassan warned individuals planning to exploit the national celebrations to engage in criminal activities that they would face legal action.

“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,” he said.

The Regional Commissioner also 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 the gains in the North Rift partly to sustained security operations under the Maliza Uhalifu initiative, saying communities were gradually returning to normal life, businesses were reopening and displaced residents were returning to their homes.

Hassan said the government would sustain intelligence-led and coordinated operations in areas affected by banditry and violence, targeting both perpetrators and those financing or facilitating 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.

He called on security agencies, government administrators, local leaders and residents to work together to consolidate the progress made in restoring peace.

With the 2027 General Election approaching, Hassan further urged political leaders, community elders, religious institutions, the media and members of the public to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

He cautioned Kenyans against hate speech, incitement, ethnic hostility and inflammatory language, saying all citizens had a responsibility to protect national unity.

“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 residents and visitors to celebrate Mashujaa Day responsibly, cooperate with security officers and uphold the law throughout the national celebrations.