01/06/2026
Many Kenyans, especially young people, heard the name Ahmed Mohamed Khalif for the first time today after President William Ruto directed that Wajir Stadium be named in his honour.
Who was Ahmed Mohamed Khalif?
Ahmed Mohamed Khalif (1950–2003) was a courageous Kenyan leader, politician, and advocate for the rights of Muslims and Somali communities in northern Kenya.
Born in Wajir in 1950, he came from a family with a strong tradition of public service. He attended Wajir Government School before furthering his education in Nairobi and later at a university in the Netherlands. His academic background helped shape him into a respected and influential leader.
Before joining politics, Khalif worked as a journalist for both the Kenyan government and the BBC. He also served as chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), where he championed Muslim rights with determination and integrity.
Khalif represented Wajir West as a Member of Parliament from 1979 and became known for speaking out against injustices, including the 1984 Wajir Massacre. In 2003, he made history by becoming the first Cabinet minister from Wajir after joining the new government.
Tragically, Khalif died in a plane crash just 20 days after his appointment as a Cabinet minister. Despite his short life, he left a lasting legacy of courage, leadership, and service. Naming Wajir Stadium after him honours his contributions and serves as an inspiration to future generations in northern Kenya.