Dr Jonathan Bii Chelilim convened with the ad hoc committee and secretariat tasked with preparing the report on upgrading six townships to municipalities in Uasin Gishu County on September 23, 2024.
Governor Bii initiated this process in May under the Urban Areas and Cities Act 2019. The committee is finalizing its report to enable the Governor to confer municipality status to Ziwa, Mois Bridge, Turbo, Burnt Forest, Kesses, and Moiben.
“The preliminary report indicates that these townships meet the necessary criteria for upgrade,” stated Dr. Bii. He emphasized that this aligns with the Nguzo Kumi initiative for managing devolved units. “I am fulfilling my promise to the people. Let’s focus on the future and deliver results for generations to come.”
In addition, the county boss praised the committee for its professionalism and teamwork, noting, “The future is urban. With a growing population in cities, we must prepare to address future trends.”
Benefits of new Uasin Gishu municipalities
Governor Bii also highlighted that the new municipalities would access urban funds facilitating infrastructure development, trade, and job creation. He recommended expanding Kesses Municipality to include Cheptiret, citing significant benefits and pointed out the recent establishment of courts in Turbo as an example of enhanced facilities.
Dr. Janeth Kosgei, County Executive for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, stressed the need to expedite the process for inclusion in urban budgets. She noted that the municipalities would require spatial and integrated development plans to guide infrastructure development and revenue collection.
Anthony Sitienei, County Executive Committee member for Education, emphasized the importance of translating plans into action, advocating for developments aligned with Integrated Development Plans to curb slum growth.
The chair of the representative committee confirmed widespread public support for the upgrade plans. Kesses is poised for growth with Moi University, Moiben is recognized for its agricultural potential, Turbo serves as a critical link to the Western market, Mois Bridge connects three counties, Ziwa is home to a level 5 hospital project, and Burnt Forest functions as a vibrant town centre along the main highway.
Also present in the meeting were Chief Officer Housing and Urban Development Julius Koech, Chief of Staff Nicholas Chepkwony, Director Physical Planning Daniel Koech, Director Urban Planning Jackton Kiprop, and Director Governor’s Press Silas Terigin among other officers.
