By Robert Mutasi 
The Uasin Gishu County Government has stepped up efforts to restore and revive the Eldoret Arboretum as part of a broader strategy to enhance tourism, environmental conservation, and revenue generation for the county.
On Monday, County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Investment, Industrialization and Tourism, Dr. Philip Chebunet, led officials from the Directorate of Tourism on an inspection tour of the arboretum to assess its current condition and identify priority areas for rehabilitation and modernization.
The delegation also included County Director of Investment Erustus Kerich, who represented the Director of Tourism during the visit. The team conducted a comprehensive walk-through of the facility to evaluate its state and determine urgent interventions required.
The inspection focused on evaluating the state of the recreational facility and determining the interventions required to restore it into a vibrant eco-tourism destination. County officials noted that reviving the arboretum would not only improve its appeal to visitors but also strengthen its role as a public recreation space and an important source of revenue for the county.
The team identified several sections requiring rehabilitation to restore the arboretum to its intended purpose while preserving its environmental value and natural beauty. Areas earmarked for improvement include access paths, resting sheds, security lighting, fencing, and waste management systems.
Over the years, the county government, through the Departments of Tourism, Eldoret City, Environment, and Fisheries, has invested in developing tourism infrastructure at the site. The improvements include the construction of a gazebo, a watch tower, visitor sheds, camping sites, nature trails, a Wall of Fame, a fish pond, and the planting of indigenous tree species aimed at enriching biodiversity and creating a serene environment.
Despite the need for further upgrades, the Eldoret Arboretum remains one of the county’s most popular outdoor destinations, attracting nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, families, and residents who frequent the site for morning and evening walks, jogging, relaxation, and educational tours.
Situated in the heart of Eldoret City, the arboretum provides a much-needed green space for city residents who want to escape the hustle and bustle of town. It also hosts school groups, church groups, and corporate team-building events, making it a key social and recreational hub.
County officials expressed optimism that the planned rehabilitation will transform the arboretum into a premier eco-tourism attraction, supporting environmental conservation while creating new opportunities for recreation, investment, and sustainable economic growth in Uasin Gishu County.
Dr. Chebunet said the county is committed to making Eldoret City not just a business hub but also a tourism destination, with the arboretum playing a central role in that vision. Once revived, the facility is expected to generate more revenue through entrance fees, camping fees, and hosting of events, while also promoting environmental awareness among residents.
Eldoret Leo