Governor Bii Chelilim Champions Eldoret’s Bid for City Status Amidst Rapid Growth
By Odilia Jepkirui
In a bold move aimed at propelling Eldoret to greater heights, Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim has unveiled an ambitious plan to elevate the municipality to city status.
This declaration underscores the town’s exceptional economic and infrastructural advancements, positioning it as a vital hub for investment, travel, and cultural exchange.
Governor Bii’s proposal is rooted in Eldoret’s impressive growth trajectory. The town, traditionally known for its agricultural prowess, has seen a significant transformation, bolstered by a range of key developments. Bii highlighted the town’s dynamic economy, driven by the presence of key institutions such as tertiary colleges, universities, and an international airport.
“Eldoret has always been a farmers’ town,” Bii remarked. “Agriculture thrives here thanks to our favorable climate, but now we are evolving into a multifaceted city with a diverse economy.”
One of the most compelling arguments for Eldoret’s city status is its burgeoning role as a cosmopolitan center. The town has increasingly attracted international schools, reflecting its growing cultural diversity.
This development is complemented by a surge in business investments and the arrival of various business communities, signaling a robust economic expansion.
The Governor also emphasized Eldoret’s renowned reputation in the athletic arena. The nearby high-altitude area of Iten is a well-known training ground for elite athletes, further enhancing the town’s prominence.
Eldoret’s strategic location, with convenient access to the western parts of Africa, reinforces its status as a critical center for investment, travel, and logistics.
Achieving city status, according to Bii, would usher in a host of benefits, particularly by attracting more investors and addressing youth unemployment.
He envisions a transformation that includes enhanced infrastructure—improved tarmac roads, modernized sewage systems, and the development of new stadiums. Such improvements are seen as pivotal in sustaining Eldoret’s growth and addressing urban challenges.
Eldoret’s economic landscape is further bolstered by the Export Processing Zone (EPZ), which caters to investors focused on exporting goods. The availability of ample land for new investments and the town’s natural beauty, including scenic plateaus and attractions in the Elgeyo Marakwet region, add to its appeal.
Healthcare and education are other areas where Eldoret shines. The town is home to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), the second-largest hospital in Kenya, alongside numerous private hospitals and top-level consultants. Its educational institutions, both public and private, contribute to its reputation as a significant educational hub.
Governor Bii also underscored Eldoret’s favorable climate and its hospitable community. The town’s slum-free status was highlighted as a point of pride, reflecting its overall quality of life. Moreover, Bii is advocating for enhanced international connectivity, including direct flights to London, to further boost global engagement.
Eldoret’s international airport, equipped with a cooling plant for horticultural exports, offers farmers an opportunity to diversify and expand their agricultural practices. This facility, combined with the town’s growing infrastructure and strategic advantages, aligns with the Governor’s vision of transforming Eldoret into a city.
Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim’s push for Eldoret’s city status mirrors the town’s economic vitality, infrastructural development, and communal spirit. The proposed transformation is set to unlock new opportunities for investment, growth, and prosperity, reflecting Eldoret’s evolution into a key player on both national and international stages.
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