By Robert Mutasi 
The Uasin Gishu County Government has signed a cooperation agreement with Czech Republic-based SEKO Aerospace, a.s., to advance plans for a solar-powered street lighting and smart city project in Eldoret.
The agreement marks a step towards introducing renewable energy infrastructure and digital technologies aimed at improving security, traffic management and service delivery in Eldoret City.
The county government said the project has received the required approvals under the Public Private Partnerships Act, 2021, and has entered the final stage of negotiations.
The two parties are working towards signing the Project Agreement and reaching financial close, which would pave the way for implementation.
The project will be rolled out in phases, beginning with plans for a solar power generation plant and a network of solar-powered street lights across Eldoret City. It will also incorporate smart city technologies to support urban management and improve public services.
The planned systems include smart traffic management technology, LED display screens, electric vehicle charging stations, public internet hotspots and an interconnected closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance network.
The proposed infrastructure is expected to improve public safety, reduce reliance on conventional energy sources for street lighting and support the adoption of clean energy.
The CCTV network is intended to strengthen security, while smart traffic systems could help improve the management of vehicle movement within the city. Public internet hotspots would also expand access to connectivity in designated areas.
The planned electric vehicle charging stations are expected to support the development of cleaner transport options as Eldoret continues to expand its urban infrastructure.
The county government said the initiative reflects its commitment to partnerships that promote sustainable development and support the city’s growth.
If implemented as planned, the project could benefit residents, traders, investors and visitors through improved urban services and the adoption of modern technologies.
However, the project is still at the negotiation stage, with implementation dependent on the completion of the remaining contractual and financial arrangements.
The county delegation during the signing was led by County Secretary Philip Meli. He was accompanied by County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, Energy and Irrigation Anthony Sitienei, County Attorney Silverstor Metto and Director of Energy Silas Leting.
The Czech delegation included the country’s Ambassador to Kenya, Nicol Adamcovà, SEKO Aerospace Chief Executive Officer Vlastimil Sedláček and representatives from SEKO Energy and Rayvion SEKO.
The proposed partnership adds to Uasin Gishu’s plans to modernise Eldoret’s infrastructure as the city continues to develop as a regional commercial and urban centre.
The project’s progress will depend on the conclusion of negotiations, the signing of the final agreement and the securing of financing needed to deliver the proposed facilities.
Michael Karemi 
Baraka Simba