By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 1 June 2026 - President William Ruto has named the newly constructed Wajir Stadium after former Cabinet Minister and Wajir West MP Ahmed Khalif, honouring a politician remembered for his advocacy on justice issues in the region.
The President made the announcement during the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations held at the facility in Wajir County on Monday, following a request by Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
The stadium, now to be known as Ahmed Khalif Stadium, commemorates the late politician who served as Labour and Manpower Development minister in President Mwai Kibaki’s first Cabinet.
Mr Khalif was elected on a National Rainbow Coalition (Narc) ticket in the 2002 General Election, defying the dominance of Kanu in the region at the time.
However, his tenure in government was cut short when he died in a plane crash at Busia Airstrip on January 24, 2003, barely three weeks after his appointment to the Cabinet. The aircraft reportedly struck power lines after failing to gain sufficient altitude during take-off.
He is also remembered for his efforts in seeking justice for victims of the 1984 Wagalla massacre.
Governor Abdullahi thanked the national government for constructing the modern stadium and urged the President to name it after the late minister in recognition of his contributions to Wajir and the country.
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“We would be honoured if this facility is named after Ahmed Khalif to recognise his service and legacy,” the governor said.
The stadium, regarded as the most modern sports facility in northern Kenya, was completed within three months through a joint effort involving the Kenya Defence Forces and other government agencies ahead of the national celebrations.
President Ruto also announced plans to establish a university in Wajir and directed local leaders to identify suitable land for the institution.
“We want to expand access to higher education in this region. The county leadership should identify land so that we can begin the process of setting up a university in Wajir,” he said.
The President said the projects are part of the government’s broader agenda to improve infrastructure and expand opportunities in the northern counties.
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