More than 52,705 residents in five informal settlements of Trans Nzoia County are set to benefit from a large-scale infrastructure upgrade project funded by the National Government, International Development Association (IDA), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and the World Bank.
The project, under the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project Phase II (KISIP 2), aims to enhance access to basic services and improve tenure security for residents.
“This initiative will transform the lives of thousands, providing better roads, clean water, and improved lighting,” Baraza said.
The settlements will benefit as follows:
Tuwan: 16,043 residents (22 hectares)
Mitume: 22,888 residents (20 hectares)
Kipsongo: 2,098 residents (27 hectares)
Shanti: 1,794 residents (18 hectares)
Matisi: 9,882 residents (28 hectares)
The project is divided into large and small works. Large works include constructing 9,477 meters of bitumen-standard roads with storm drainage systems, laying 9,052 meters of water supply lines, and installing integrated solar street lighting systems.
“We’ve completed significant milestones, including road excavations and concrete casting,” said Project Site Engineer Martin Maina. “Although slightly behind schedule, we are committed to regaining momentum.”
Key roads under construction include:
KeRRA Link Road (1.6 km, Matisi)
Umoja Link Road (0.4 km, Mitume)
Usafi Road (1.83 km, Mitume)
Kitale East Road (1.0 km, Tuwan)
PAG Mukarani Road (0.35 km, Shanti)
The large works, valued at KSh 940.4 million, were awarded to Sihaam Limited through a competitive bidding process.
The small works component, worth KSh 27.7 million, focuses on installing high-mast security lights across the five settlements. “The goal is to enhance safety, especially at night,” Baraza noted, adding that the current completion rate for small works stands at 22%.
During a project familiarization meeting, newly appointed CEC for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, Phanice Khatundi, praised the project's progress. “This initiative will be a game-changer socially and economically. It aligns with Governor George Natembeya’s vision of uplifting living standards,” she said.
Chief Officer Dr. Roselyne Nasiebanda emphasized the urgency of the project amid the dry season. “We aim to accelerate construction before the rains begin in March,” she stated. Dr. Nasiebanda also encouraged residents to apply for water connections, highlighting the project's long-term benefits beyond infrastructure.
“This isn’t just about roads and pipes; it’s about clean water and safer streets for families,” she added.
Stakeholders, including the Trans Nzoia Water Company (TRANSWASCO), plan to conduct sensitization meetings to promote the importance of clean water and the benefits of the project.
The KISIP 2 project represents a significant milestone in Trans Nzoia’s development journey. As construction progresses, residents in the targeted settlements can look forward to improved infrastructure, better living conditions, and enhanced opportunities for growth and prosperity.
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