Kisii to Take National Spotlight as Ruto Picks Gusii Stadium for Grand 2026 Jamhuri Day Celebrations

Kisii County is set to enter the national limelight after President William Ruto named it the host of the 2026 Jamhuri Day celebrations. The event will take place at the newly upgraded Gusii Stadium. This decision marks a major win for the county. It also signals a shift in how national events are shared across the country.

President Ruto made the announcement on January 29. He spoke at Gusii Stadium during the release of Nyota Programme funds. The funds went to Kisii, Migori, and Nyamira counties. He said national celebrations should not be limited to a few cities. Instead, they should move around. This, he said, helps spread growth and opportunity.

Gusii Stadium is now under major renovation. The works include expansion and modern upgrades. These changes aim to make the venue fit for a national event. The stadium will host leaders from across the country. It will also host thousands of visitors.

The hosting rights followed a request from Governor Simba Arati. He asked the president to give Kisii the chance to host the national day. He said the event would boost trade and tourism. It would also improve the county’s image. President Ruto agreed. He said Kisii deserves the chance.

This announcement also brings closure to an old promise. Kisii was meant to host the 57th Madaraka Day in 2020. However, COVID-19 forced the event to be cancelled. Former president Uhuru Kenyatta later promised a future chance. Now that chance has arrived.

The 2026 Jamhuri Day will bring new energy to Kisii. Hotels will get more guests. Traders will see more customers. Transport services will grow. Many jobs will be created. The county will also gain strong political attention.

This comes as the 2027 General Election draws closer. National leaders are expected to use the event to share policy plans. Major speeches will be made. New projects may be announced. Kisii will be at the centre of it all.

Meanwhile, the county is pushing development. A new Mother and Child Hospital wing is now complete at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital. Postnatal care units have also been expanded. Hospital systems have gone digital. This has improved service delivery.

In trade, new markets in Magena and Marani are now open. Market sheds have been built across several wards. Farmers are also getting cold storage and value addition support. These steps will help Kisii welcome the nation in 2026 with pride.