Construction activities linked to the expansion of Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret have sparked tensions after graves at the adjacent Old Eldoret Christian Cemetery were reportedly disturbed.
Located behind the stadium on Eldoret-Iten Road, the cemetery spans over two acres and holds the remains of many early settlers of Eldoret, with some graves dating back more than 120 years. Contractors working on a perimeter fence for the stadium have dug trenches that damaged several graves, prompting families to exhume and relocate some remains.
Families Demand Accountability and Consultation
On Tuesday, relatives of the deceased gathered at the cemetery to protest the ongoing works. Led by Eldoret Christian Cemetery chairman Martin Njuguna, Catholic priest Father Fredrick Njoroge, and Langas MCA Francis Muya, they called on the Uasin Gishu county government to explain why excavation proceeded without prior consultation with families.
"Although the cemetery had not been in active use recently, it remains the final resting place for hundreds of our relatives. Tampering with graves without involving us is unacceptable," Njuguna stated. He added that families had initially received permission from the county to beautify the cemetery, not to have graves disturbed.
Concerns Over Access and Preservation
The stadium’s renovation aims to prepare the venue for upcoming Mashujaa Day celebrations and potentially serve as an alternative site for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). As part of security improvements, a perimeter fence is being installed. However, families fear this will restrict access to the cemetery, where they continue to hold memorial services.
Father Njoroge, whose father is buried at the site, described the grave disturbances as deeply distressing and questioned the lack of engagement with affected families before construction began.
MCA Muya urged Governor Jonathan Bii’s administration to provide a clear explanation for the oversight and called for meaningful dialogue with the families.
Balancing Development and Heritage
The families expressed support for the stadium’s expansion but emphasized that it should not come at the expense of preserving the cemetery’s integrity. They argue there is adequate space between the stadium and cemetery, making the excavation and resulting damage unnecessary.
Should the county government fail to halt the works and engage in proper consultations, the families have threatened to pursue legal action to protect their rights and the sanctity of the burial site.
For now, the Old Eldoret Christian Cemetery remains a contested space where development ambitions clash with the community's desire to honor and safeguard their ancestors’ resting place.
