Eldoret – The County Administration of Eldoret is making significant strides towards city status with the creation of ad hoc committees tasked with upgrading six of its townships into municipalities. The initiative is set to culminate with the conferment of city status to Eldoret in August this year.
According to Kenya News Agency, who spoke during the inauguration of these committees, this move aligns with the Nguzo Kumi objective focused on sustainable urban development and enhanced governance. The towns set for elevation include Moi’s Bridge, Ziwa, Moiben, Turbo, Burnt Forest, and Kesses. The committees will undertake various tasks such as urban planning, waste management, revenue enhancement, citizen service delivery, and devolution of functions to better serve local residents.
The Governor stressed the importance of proper urban planning to accommodate future growth as the towns expand. He mentioned the vital role these committees will play in ensuring that the townships meet the specific criteria for municipal status as outlined in the Kenya Urban and Cities Act of 2011. Additionally, he highlighted the potential for renaming certain areas with undesirable names through community engagement and historical consideration.
As part of the broader efforts to enhance urban governance, the Governor underscored upcoming programs like the Kenya Urban Support Programme and the Kenya Informal Settlement Programme, which are expected to benefit the residents significantly. He also projected an increase in urban to rural migration following the town’s elevation to city status, suggesting a shift in population dynamics.
Dr. Janet Kosgei, County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, stated that the committees have two months to complete their tasks. She emphasized the role of these developments in opening up opportunities, enhancing engagement with residents, and bringing services closer to the people.
The process of upgrading Eldoret to city status and the other towns to municipal status follows a structured approach under the Urban Areas and Cities Act, as explained by County Secretary, Edwin Bett. He noted that similar to the process for Eldoret, each town would undergo a thorough evaluation to ensure compliance with the legal provisions for municipal status.
The Chairman of the Committee on Lands and Physical Planning at the County Assembly, Moses Kebenei, along with Amos Kiptanui of Housing and Urban Development, assured their support for the committee’s efforts in the county assembly. They recognized the developmental benefits that municipal status would bring to these towns.
Eldoret Municipality Manager, Mr. Tito Koiyet, welcomed these developments as Eldoret prepares to transition to city status, marking a new phase for the county.