Trans Nzoia County Engages Stakeholders in Slum Upgrading Strategy Validation
The County Government of Trans Nzoia, through its Department of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, held a key stakeholder meeting today to validate a report on the County’s Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy.
The forum, part of the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP) Phase 2, brought together representatives from various sectors, including the County Project Implementation Team (CPIT), community leaders, ward and sub-county administrators, the GEO Dev consultancy team, and officials from the KISIP National Project Coordination Team (NPCT).
Edith Baraza, the KISIP 2 Coordinator for Trans Nzoia, emphasized the importance of stakeholder input. “The consultants will present their findings, and we rely on your feedback to refine the strategy. This will ensure that our plans to manage and prevent slum proliferation are practical and effective,” said Baraza.
GEO Dev consultancy firm, in collaboration with the Department of Lands, had previously gathered data on slums in Trans Nzoia during stakeholder engagements in early September.
The firm presented its findings during the meeting, which aim to shape the county’s strategy for managing existing informal settlements and preventing the emergence of new ones.
Sally Lesas, Component 3 Lead for KISIP 2’s National Coordination Team, noted that the county-specific strategies align with the recently approved National Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy.
“We aim to create awareness and ensure community participation in developing strategies tailored to each county,” Lesas stated.
GEO Dev lead consultant Titus Musungu outlined the strategy’s components, focusing on the current state of slums, future goals, actionable steps, and progress measurement.
“Our goal is not just to eradicate slums but to implement phased actions over the next five to ten years. Stakeholder feedback will ensure that the collected data is accurate and comprehensive,” said Musungu.
Stakeholders were tasked with verifying the data on identified slum areas across Trans Nzoia and providing input on any overlooked settlements.
The meeting, attended by key officials such as Governor’s Delivery Unit Director Paul Ereng and Bishop Eward Khaoya.
The validated strategy will guide Trans Nzoia in fostering sustainable urban development and improving living conditions in informal settlements.