Activities have intensified in Kapsabet town as Nandi County steps up preparations ahead of the forthcoming Mashujaa Day celebrations.

The event to be jointly hosted by Nandi, Uasin Gishu and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties on October 20, has witnessed heightened activities across Kapsabet town, the Nandi County headquarters, with massive road construction and rehabilitation works, improvement of public facilities and beautification works gathering pace.

Nandi County Commissioner (CC) Wilberforce Kilonzo, who has been coordinating the preparations with various government agencies, said all departments are working together to ensure that Kapsabet and the wider county is ready to receive thousands of visitors expected during the celebrations.

Kilonzo said the preparations required close cooperation between the national and county governments, particularly in security, public works, traffic management, cleanliness and improvement of public spaces.

“Government officers involved in the preparations have been directed to ensure that their respective assignments are undertaken within the set timelines, noting that the exercise is aimed at ensuring a smooth hosting of the celebrations,” he stated.

The CC said the infrastructure improvements would also provide a lasting benefit to residents, traders and other users of Kapsabet town beyond the Mashujaa Day celebrations.

On his part, the County Secretary Dr. Francis Sang has also been coordinating the county government’s participation in the preparations, with various departments working to ensure that infrastructure projects and other activities are completed before the celebrations.

Sang emphasized the need for departments and contractors involved in the projects to maintain the momentum and ensure that works are completed to the required standards.

“Among the major activities are the upgrading of roads within Kapsabet town and its environs, with several urban roads undergoing rehabilitation, as part of efforts to improve accessibility and give the town a facelift,” he said.

Dr. Sang stated that the road works are expected to improve connectivity between residential areas, business centres and key government institutions while easing movement within the rapidly expanding county headquarters.

Other areas being targeted include drainage, pedestrian facilities, cleaning of streets and improvement of public spaces, with the works expected to transform the appearance of Kapsabet ahead of the celebrations.

He added that the he upgrading of the Kipchoge  Stadium is also among major infrastructure projects being undertaken in preparation for the national event.

“The stadium is being upgraded to accommodate the large number of guests expected to attend the celebrations, while other sporting facilities within the region are also undergoing improvement,” he asserted.

The preparations have also increased activity in the town’s Central Business District, with traders and service providers anticipating increased business as visitors, government officials and other stakeholders arrive in the town for the celebrations.

The Mashujaa Day event is expected to showcase the development potential of the three counties while providing an opportunity for residents to benefit from infrastructure improvements undertaken ahead of the national celebrations.

by Sammy Mwibanda