Cheptongei and Chebiemit centres in Elgeyo Marakwet County are set for a major upgrade as Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP-2) infrastructural works kicks off.
The two centres will benefit from Ksh350 million project development aimed at improving living conditions in informal settlements, with funding from The World Bank.
This will involve tarmacking roads within the centres, provision of walkways, drainage, floodlights installation, provision of street lights, and construction of vending markets.
Speaking during the official launch and groundbreaking of infrastructural works at the two centres, Governor Wisley Rotich said the new facelift will usher in new business transformation in the region and urged the residents to seize the upcoming business opportunities in the area.
“With good infrastructure that is coming up, business in the area will flourish. To attract more clients, you should also provide excellent services,” the governor said.
Impact of KISIP projects in Elgeyo Marakwet
David Kiptoo, a resident and trader at Cheptongei centre welcomed the infrastructural development in the centre.
“Tarmacking our roads will not only make our town beautiful but also improve the drainage. When it rains, we can’t walk. We are forced to close our business,” he said.
Stanley Kipchumba, also a resident said they are often forced to close business early due to lack of floodlights.
“Chebiemit is dark at night. The drainage also is worrying. With walkways, and lighting, we can even extend our business hours.We welcome the project. It is Godsend.”
Kambi Debe and Milimani in Iten Municipality are also among the settlements that will benefit from the programme.
Others centres across the county will be considered going forward.
Accordingly to Eng. Bernard Oloo from the State Department of Lands Housing and Urban Development, Elgeyo Marakwet was among the first counties under the KISIP-2 program to commission their projects.
“The construction works should move with speed now that the projects have been commissioned,” Eng Oloo said.
