Residents of Uasin Gishu County, especially those living near Eldoret, are speaking out about major problems affecting their day-to-day lives. From unreliable healthcare services to challenges in agriculture and education, locals are urging both county and national leaders to take urgent action.
These concerns were brought to light during a recent public participation forum organized by the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary.
Agricultural Struggles in the Heart of Kenya’s Grain Basket
Agriculture is the backbone of Uasin Gishu’s economy, with Eldoret at the center of activity. However, farmers are feeling the pinch.
Key Issues Facing Farmers:
- Delays in fertilizer distribution due to automated systems in parastatal boards.
- Soil acidity problems, affecting crop yield and soil health.
- Lack of region-specific fertilizers, although efforts are underway to analyze local soils.
County Commissioner Edisson Nyale addressed these challenges, noting that while automation aims to improve efficiency, it has also introduced delays that hurt productivity.
“Experts have already taken soil samples to ensure farmers get fertilizer suited to our region,” Nyale said.
Frustration in the Affordable Housing Sector
Elijah Kiambati, a local artisan from the Jua Kali sector, voiced disappointment over the non-payment of wages for work done on the Affordable Housing Project.
“We are almost done with the work, but our complaints have fallen on deaf ears,” he lamented.
Such frustrations are not isolated. Many in Uasin Gishu feel overlooked and unappreciated despite contributing to critical government projects.
Healthcare Services: A Failing System?
For many Eldoret residents, accessing quality healthcare remains a challenge.
A civil servant shared her struggle with the government’s health insurance system, which she described as unreliable. She recounted how, during a visit to a health facility in Kericho, her samples were mixed up, resulting in incorrect test results.
Common Complaints Include:
- A constantly unavailable insurance system.
- Mismanagement of patient samples.
- Inability to get treatment, even in urgent situations.
TVET Students Demand Better Security
Education was another hot-button issue. Students from Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI), located near Eldoret, raised security concerns.
According to Haroun Rotich, the student president:
“Most students living off-campus risk being mugged due to poor lighting. We’ve asked for help, but nothing has been done.”
Rotich warned that waiting for a tragic incident before taking action would be irresponsible.
A Growing Call for Government Action
This forum made it clear: residents of Uasin Gishu County are tired of waiting. From delayed services to lack of response from local authorities, there’s a strong feeling that urgent intervention is needed.
What Residents Are Asking For:
- Faster and fairer fertilizer distribution systems.
- Prompt payment for contracted work.
- A functional health insurance scheme.
- Improved security infrastructure in learning institutions.
Final Thoughts
The voices from Uasin Gishu, especially around Eldoret, show a county ready for progress but held back by inefficiencies and neglect. It’s time for leaders at all levels to listen, respond, and act decisively.
