The Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, has proposed the renaming of Kirigiti Stadium to “Freedom Stadium” to commemorate the site’s rich historical significance.

The stadium, located in Kiambu, holds a special place in Kenya’s history as the venue where Jomo Kenyatta, the country’s founding father, delivered his final speech before his detention in 1952, marking a pivotal moment in the struggle for independence.

A Historic Landmark

Kirigiti Stadium, originally built as a colonial sports ground, has over the years served as a key venue for various sporting events, political rallies, and social gatherings.

However, its most notable moment came on October 20, 1952, when Jomo Kenyatta, alongside other key figures of the independence movement, addressed a massive crowd at the stadium.

This speech, delivered just days before his arrest by British colonial authorities, is widely regarded as a critical juncture in Kenya’s fight for independence.

Following his arrest, Kenyatta was charged with leading the Mau Mau rebellion and subsequently detained for nearly a decade. His detention sparked widespread resistance across the country, ultimately leading to Kenya’s independence in 1963.

The renaming of Kirigiti Stadium to Freedom Stadium is seen as a tribute to this significant chapter in Kenya’s history and the enduring spirit of the freedom fighters who sacrificed for the nation’s sovereignty.

CS Murkomen’s Proposal

In a statement, cabinet Secretary Murkomen emphasized the importance of preserving Kenya’s historical heritage.

“The founding father of this nation addressed his last rally here before being taken away for detention and so it has a very important historical significance,” Murkomen remarked

Murkomen further highlighted the government’s commitment to honoring the heroes of Kenya’s independence and preserving historical sites across the country.

He noted that the renaming of Kirigiti Stadium is part of a broader initiative to recognize and celebrate Kenya’s freedom fighters.

Mixed Reactions

The proposal has sparked mixed reactions among residents and leaders in Kiambu County.

Some have welcomed the idea, viewing it as a fitting tribute to the nation’s history.

However, others have expressed reservations, arguing that the current name is already deeply rooted in the community’s identity.

Next Step

Murkomen noted that his Ministry will do public participation to get the views of the public before embarking on the process of renaming the stadium.

“Yes, if we achieve that, then this shall be the place where young men and women will achieve their freedom by unlocking their potential and we will ensure that we build more sportsmen and women,’’ he added.

The decision to rename Kirigiti Stadium to Freedom Stadium, if finalized, will mark a significant step in honoring Kenya’s freedom fighters and preserving the nation’s historical landmarks.

The move aligns with the ongoing efforts to celebrate Kenya’s journey to independence and the figures who played pivotal roles in achieving the country’s freedom.