President William Ruto has announced that the newly constructed Wajir Stadium will be renamed Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium in recognition of the late former Cabinet Minister Ahmed Mohammed Khalif’s contribution to public service and leadership in Northern Kenya.
The announcement was made during the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations held in Wajir County, marking a historic milestone as the national event was hosted in the North Eastern region for the first time since independence.
Addressing thousands of residents and guests at the celebrations, President Ruto said the government would ensure the facility is completed and upgraded to international standards before officially adopting the new name.
“I have heard the request from the leaders and people of Wajir, and I fully support it. Once this stadium is completed and upgraded to international standards, it will be known as Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium,” the President said.
Recognising a Distinguished Public Servant
The move seeks to preserve the legacy of Ahmed Mohammed Khalif, who remains one of the region’s most respected political figures. Khalif served as the Member of Parliament for Wajir West and was appointed Minister for Labour and Manpower Development in the administration of former President Mwai Kibaki.
His appointment made history as he became the first Cabinet Minister from Wajir County, a significant achievement for the region.
However, his tenure in Cabinet was cut short after he lost his life in a plane crash in Busia on January 24, 2003, only weeks after assuming office.
The proposed renaming is seen as a fitting tribute to a leader remembered for his commitment to public service and advocacy for the development of Northern Kenya.
Governor’s Proposal Receives Presidential Backing
The naming proposal was initially advanced by Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, who urged the national government to honour Khalif’s legacy by associating his name with one of the region’s most significant infrastructure projects.
Local leaders and residents have welcomed the decision, noting that it will ensure future generations remember the contributions made by leaders who helped shape the region’s political and socio-economic development.
Landmark Facility for Wajir
The stadium has become one of the most visible symbols of ongoing infrastructure development in Wajir County. Constructed by the Kenya Defence Forces within a short period ahead of the Madaraka Day celebrations, the facility has transformed the county’s sporting landscape.
The 10,000-seater stadium features a modern artificial turf football pitch, an eight-lane athletics track, VIP lounges, changing rooms and enhanced spectator facilities designed to host national and international sporting events.
Its completion is expected to open new opportunities for sports development, talent nurturing and economic activity in the region.
Symbol of Transformation
The decision to rename the facility comes amid broader government efforts to integrate and uplift Northern Kenya through strategic investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic development.
For many residents, the naming of the stadium after Ahmed Khalif represents more than a tribute to an individual; it symbolizes recognition of the region’s history, leadership and growing role in Kenya’s national development agenda.
As Wajir celebrates hosting the country’s premier national event, the future Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium is set to stand as a lasting monument to both the region’s progress and the legacy of one of its most distinguished sons.
