By Robert Mutasi 
Uasin Gishu County is stepping up efforts to improve Eldoret’s urban infrastructure, with ongoing works targeting key streets, pedestrian walkways, drainage and public spaces.
Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim said the projects are part of the county’s wider plan to develop Eldoret into a modern and well-planned city capable of supporting its expanding population and growing commercial activity.
The ongoing works at Iten-Cicada Stage, Tagore Street and Sosiani Street are among the areas receiving upgrades.
According to Bii, the projects include improved walkways, streetscapes, drainage systems and green spaces. The works are intended to improve movement within the city while making public areas more accessible to residents, traders and visitors.
“Our agenda to transform Eldoret into a modern and well-planned city is steadily taking shape,” Bii said.
The governor said the county is implementing the improvements through its urban support programme, which is focused on strengthening infrastructure and improving public spaces across the city.
Eldoret has experienced rapid urban growth in recent years, increasing demand for better roads, pedestrian facilities, drainage and other public amenities.
The city’s elevation to city status in 2024 further increased attention on its infrastructure and urban planning needs. Eldoret is a major commercial centre in the North Rift and serves as a transport and business link between several counties in western Kenya and the wider region.
The county government has been under pressure to ensure that urban expansion is matched by adequate infrastructure and proper planning.
The latest projects are expected to improve pedestrian access in areas with significant human and commercial activity while also addressing drainage challenges.
Improved streetscapes and green spaces could also change the appearance of some parts of the city and provide residents with better public areas.
Bii said the county intends to build on the ongoing works as it seeks to position Eldoret as an attractive destination for businesses and investment.
The projects are part of a broader urban transformation programme that seeks to address both infrastructure needs and the changing character of Eldoret as the population grows.
County officials are expected to continue with improvements in other parts of the city as the administration pursues its urban development agenda.
For residents and businesses, the success of the programme will largely depend on the quality and completion of the works, as well as how effectively the upgraded infrastructure is maintained.
Bii said the county would continue working through its urban support programme to create a more functional and investment-ready Eldoret, which the administration refers to as the “City of Champions.”