Growth and opportunities as Eldoret gears up for city status

 

Uasin Gishu County Governor Jonathan addresses during an interdenominational prayer day at the county headquarters in Eldoret on July 24, 2024. [Peter Ochieng, Standard]

Eldoret, the economic hub of the North Rift region is awaiting its elevation to be the country’s fifth city in August after Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nakuru. The town will be granted a charter after the Senate gave the approval last year. Christened City of Champions, Eldoret town serves as the headquarters of Uasin Gishu County.  Our reporter, Lynne Kolongei spoke to Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii about the upcoming city status conferment.

Question: When can we expect Eldoret Municipality to be officially conferred city status?

Eldoret has a rich history, first gazetted as a town on November 14, 1912, and later elevated to municipal status in 1929. This August 8, we will celebrate its conferment to city status. The historic ceremony will be conducted by President William Ruto.

What steps were taken leading up to Eldoret’s upcoming conferment?

Upon assuming office, I immediately formed an ad hoc committee to evaluate Eldoret’s suitability for city status. This team engaged with all stakeholders according to established guidelines, compiled their recommendations, and presented them to the county assembly. The proposal was then forwarded to the Senate for approval and subsequently received Presidential assent, culminating in the set conferment date.

What would you tell those who are skeptical about this city status?

Eldoret’s strategic location as a central hub between East and Central African countries, combined with our rich cultural heritage and favourable climate, makes us uniquely positioned. We have modern infrastructure, including air, rail, and road networks, alongside consistent power and water supply. Our strong healthcare and education systems, coupled with our sports achievements, industrial base, and agricultural prowess, position Eldoret as a vibrant economic and business hub. Also, our emerging Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and County Aggregation Industrial Park are set to attract further investment and enhance our status as a tourism destination.

What benefits will the city status bring to the region?

City status will enhance our visibility and create opportunities for investment, leading to job creation for our youth and fostering a more favourable business environment. It will also facilitate funding for infrastructure upgrades and improve service delivery. With Eldoret’s agricultural richness, our farmers will benefit from greater market access and value addition. Businesses will thrive in a more conducive environment, boosting economic growth for the North Rift Economic Bloc.

What about youth?

Looking towards 2030, as urbanization increases, Eldoret’s city status will attract youth migration in search of job opportunities. We are committed to supporting this transition and will work to create a platform for youth engagement and employment, ensuring they benefit from the city’s growth.

Should we expect a rise in taxes and land rates?

City status does not automatically result in higher taxes. While tax streams may increase with population growth and service demands, our administration is dedicated to maintaining a favourable environment for our citizens. We will focus on improving services without imposing additional financial burdens..

What specific infrastructure projects are planned to accommodate Eldoret’s growth as a city?

 We are prioritising the expansion and upgrading of our road networks, improving public transportation systems, and enhancing water and electricity supply. These projects aim to support the increased population and economic activities that come with city status. Additionally, we are working on upgrading healthcare to meet the needs of our residents.

As a Governor, what is your vision for the county?

My vision focuses on value addition through strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing economic and social development, especially through adequate provision of water and supporting agriculture.

Additionally, the ongoing construction of an ultra-modern market, set to host over 10,000 traders, will foster robust business activities and serve as a hub for commerce and entrepreneurship. EPZ will employ over 1,000 people and drive industrial growth, attracting foreign investment and boosting exports.

The County Aggregation and Industrial Park being constructed in Moiben will support industrial development. Our city will operate as a 24-hour economy. Finally, state-of-the-art stadiums will support our sportspeople, attracting national and international events and enhancing our city’s profile.