President Ruto Names New Wajir Stadium After Late Political Giant Ahmed Khalif

 

President William Ruto unveils the Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium during the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir, honouring the late political leader's enduring legacy in North Eastern Kenya.

Article by: Babz Abdul-Raheem.
Date: June 01,2026.

President William Ruto has honoured a request from residents and leaders of Wajir County by officially naming the newly constructed stadium in Wajir Town the Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium, in tribute to the late veteran politician and respected statesman Ahmed Khalif.

The announcement was made during the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations held in Wajir County, marking the first time in Kenya's history that the national event has been hosted in the North Eastern region. The decision was met with applause from thousands of residents who attended the celebrations at the newly completed 10,000-seater facility.

President Ruto described the late Ahmed Khalif as a visionary leader whose contributions to the political, social and economic development of Wajir and the wider North Eastern region left an enduring legacy. He noted that naming the stadium after him would ensure future generations remember his dedication to public service and community empowerment.

The state-of-the-art stadium was constructed at a cost of approximately KSh900 million as part of preparations for the 2026 Madaraka Day celebrations. The facility features a modern football pitch, an athletics track, VIP lounges, changing rooms and other amenities designed to support sports development and community activities in the region.

The renaming of the stadium fulfils a long-standing appeal by local leaders and residents who had petitioned the government to immortalize Ahmed Khalif's legacy through one of the county's landmark projects.

Leaders from across the region welcomed the President's decision, describing it as a fitting recognition of a man who played a significant role in shaping Wajir's political landscape and championing the interests of marginalized communities.

The Ahmed Khalif Wajir Stadium is expected to serve as a major sporting and social hub for North Eastern Kenya, while standing as a lasting monument to one of the region's most influential leaders.