The County Government of Uasin Gishu has initiated plans that will see the famous ‘Mangula’ area within Eldoret town get a facelift.
For years, the area has been known to be a hideout for criminals engaged in illegal drugs peddling and home to notorious street children.
But according to Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim, the negative picture that is usually painted about ‘Mangula’ area will soon be a thing of the past.
Speaking after visiting the area on December 10, 2022, the governor said his administration will convert it into a recreational place for not just locals but international touriststs.
“The famous ‘mangula’ section along river Sosiani in Eldoret that used to be habited by street families and a hideout for criminals will soon get a facelift,” Chelilim said.
“My administration is going to rename and restore the area for recreational purposes,” he added.
According to the county boss, Tourism and Environment Departments are already looking on ways to ensure that the area is improved and habitable for local and international visitors.
He revealed that roads in the area shall be opened and street lights put in place so that it also becomes a nature spot where people can walk and jog comfortably without fear.
The ‘Mangula’ area is adjacent to the Eldoret Retail Market that was recently closed following a clash between a section of traders and enforcement officers.
Eldoret market re-opening
But during the visit, Chelilim also passed by a section of the closed market and addressed some traders.
He challenged the traders to volunteer information on individuals creating incitement and division.
This is even as the governor noted that they are awaiting for the taskforce report on the status of the market that will inform it’s re-opening.
The market was closed mid in November, and was to be reopened after 7 days. Delays in the market’s re-opening has seen traders lament over the move’s negative impact on their livelihoods and dependants.
