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President William Ruto has approved a proposal to name the newly built Wajir Stadium after the late Ahmed Khalif, a respected political figure from the region.
The announcement followed a request by Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi during the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations held in Wajir on Monday. The governor said naming the facility after Ahmed Khalif would be a fitting way to honour a leader who played a significant role in representing the region at the national level.
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Governor Abdullahi recalled his admiration for Khalif, revealing that his first involvement in politics was in 2002 when he served as Khalif’s campaign manager in an effort to help him reclaim his parliamentary seat.
He described the move as a meaningful tribute to a leader who left a lasting impact on the people of Wajir.
Ahmed Mohamed Khalif made history as the first Cabinet Minister from the Wajir region, serving in the administration of former President Mwai Kibaki. He died in a plane crash in January 2003.
In response, President Ruto endorsed the proposal and assured residents that the stadium would be completed and upgraded to meet international standards.
“I agree that the facility should be named Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium, and we will ensure it is completed to the required international standards,” the President said.
During his address, President Ruto also spoke about the historical challenges faced by communities in the region, including ethnic profiling and difficulties in obtaining identification documents. He expressed regret over past injustices and affirmed his administration’s commitment to equal treatment for all citizens.
The President further clarified that the Presidential Proclamation on the Registration and Issuance of IDs and Birth Certificates in Northern Kenya, signed in February 2025, was not intended to allow foreigners to acquire Kenyan documents unlawfully.
He stressed that only legitimate Kenyan citizens would be issued national identification documents, adding that efforts to promote inclusion must go hand in hand with safeguarding national security and the integrity of the country’s identification system.
Ruto also unveiled several development initiatives for the region, including plans to establish a university, improve road infrastructure, expand housing projects, and enhance healthcare services.
He emphasized that every community deserves equal opportunities, dignity, and access to development regardless of its location.
The stadium, which was constructed in roughly 100 days, is the first of more than 20 similar facilities expected to be built across the country by the Kenya Defence Forces.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the remaining works are expected to be completed within a month. He noted that roofing of the 10,000-seat facility is already 60 percent complete, with additional features such as a tartan track set to be installed.
