Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-01 03:30:00
The Uasin Gishu County government has taken measures to upgrade Eldoret Municipality to town status as part of its overall face-lift campaign. The Senate report was unanimously endorsed and approval of the application for Eldoret Municipality status was recommended by the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations. This officially certifies Eldoret to be the fifth city in the country after Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nakuru. The long-overdue elevation to city status means that Eldoret will benefit from additional funding to attract local and international investors to set up businesses in the region.
However, several conditions have been set by the county government for the town’s upgrade to city status. These conditions include the relocation of Jua Kali traders to a designated area, beautification of the town by planting trees and flowers in the Central Business District, and the installation of human traffic barriers. In addition, Eldoret Municipality is required to construct the Kilometre Zero monument, which will be unveiled by the President during the city status conferment scheduled for April.
Property owners are also facing tough conditions as part of the facelift campaigns for the upgrade to city status. The county planning department has targeted about 10 illegal buildings worth millions for demolition under the reviewed by-laws. These condemned buildings are either built on drainage lines or grabbed public land, dilapidated, and pose a risk to occupants and city residents.
Furthermore, property owners are required to paint the premises in a uniform color not associated with any commercial brand, or face a fine or six months of imprisonment and repossession of undeveloped land. Compliance with bylaws related to the design and structure of buildings, engagement of a registered architect for structural design, proper disposal of garbage from premises, and development of ramps to facilitate access to shops by people with disabilities are also mandatory.
Eldoret Municipality’s elevation to city status is expected to provide a ready and steady market for agricultural produce and other emerging business opportunities. The town, strategically located as a gateway to East and Central Africa, will benefit from its new status and is expected to attract new opportunities and investments.
Despite the challenges that Eldoret town still faces, the process of elevating it to city status is ongoing. The governor’s administration is working to address issues such as inadequate recreational facilities, transport challenges, and sanitation in order to ensure a smooth transition to city status.
Overall, the elevation of Eldoret Municipality to city status is an exciting prospect for the town and the region as a whole. The upgrade promises new opportunities for growth and development, and the county government is committed to meeting the necessary conditions for a successful transition.
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