The government kept true to its promise to ensure the Mashujaa Day fete begins early and ends early.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had told Kenyans to wake up early, noting the gates to the stadium would be opened at 3 am.
This, he said was due to the bad weather conditions with Gachagua saying the function was to start early to avoid any disruptions from rains pounding the country.
“The gates will be opened at 3 am and the stadium is small so you should get there on time. We will have our officers who will be showing you where to sit and it will be a celebration to remember," Gachagua said.
“We will start early because of the rains. The way we see this rain might cause disruptions so we urge you to arrive at the venue early,” Gachagua said.
And true to his words, all dignitaries were seated by 9 am.
Kenyans of all walks of life had braved the morning chilly weather to be at the stadium by 6am.
The crowds started to pour into the stadium as early as 1 am and by 7am the 10,000-seater Kericho Green Stadium was full.
Those who graced the event include Health CS Susan Nakhumicha, Interior CS Kituhure Kindiki, Environment CS Soipan Tuya, Trade CS Rebecca Miano and Gender CS Aisha Jumwa.
Chief Justice Martha Koome, Sports CS Ababu Namwamba, ICT CS Eliud Owalo, Zachary Njeru and Speakers of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula and Senate Amason Kingi were also in attendance.
President William Ruto was at the stadium at 9:15 am and the programme started without delay.
By 12 noon, all the entertainment sessions and the speeches were done as everyone dispersed to their homes.
The stadium has been upgraded to a 10,000-seater capacity stadium with two VIP lounges, two changing rooms, terraces and paved parking.
The Stadium will also host the Mashujaa Day Cup match between AFC Leopards and Kericho Zoo FC.
Thereafter Kericho Green Stadium will be available for training and diverse games, both county and national level.
