Locals of KK, Kasarani, and Segero informal settlements within Uasin Gishu County were on Thursday sensitized as part of the Second Phase of the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Programme (KISIP).
The event marked an important step towards enhancing the livelihoods of residents in the settlements.
Active participation of residents at the event, guided by area MCA Francis Muiya, the Programme Coordinator Nelly Jerotich, Planners Cyprian Chesire and Charles Kimani, demonstrates a shared commitment to embracing the upcoming infrastructural developments in the selected settlements.
Muiya who is also the Langas MCA encouraged the residents to welcome the program and work collaboratively with the contractors as a crucial role for the success of the programme.
He also emphasized the importance of community involvement and ownership in the progress of the works, saying that this will foster a sense of accountability and pride among the residents for the improvements that will be realized through KISIP.
KISIP programme to transform slums
“This programme will transform the settlements from slum to well organised residential area. We expect that the temporary structures will slowly be done away with as permanent investments come in,which will eventually add value to our properties,” the MCA said.
“The programme is also set to provide employment opportunities to our youth, lets take advantage of skills acquired from our technical institutions,” he added.
The positive response from the residents, who turned out in large numbers, reflects their appreciation for being first-time beneficiaries of the program. This recognition of the potential impact of the infrastructural developments on their lives underscores the significance of KISIP in enhancing the quality of life in informal settlements.
Furthermore, Programme Coordinator Nelly Jerotich, called on the residents to ensure that any developments around road reserves are removed to facilitate road construction.
“Cooperation and compliance in enabling the smooth implementation of the program is key. We want to emphasize the need to clear the way for construction activities to begin. Let’s take proactive measures that will expedite the transformation of the area into a well-organized residential area,” noted Ms. Jerotich.
Impact of KISIP programmes
Through KISIP, informal settlements have been transitioned from marginalized spaces to vibrant and sustainable communities.
The infrastructural improvements and actively involving residents in the development process, KISIP has catalysed positive change that uplift the quality of life for all residents.
Thursday’s sensitization exercise also saw a team from Eldoret Water and Sanitation (ELDOWAS) join the residents in giving assurance that they would work with contractors collaboratively to ensure that water supply is not interrupted during the construction works.
The sensitization event at KK, Kasarani, and Segero sets a positive tone for the Second Phase of KISIP in the three Settlements.
Also present were Planner Cornelius Kibet, Social Safeguards Officers Sally Sang and Frederick Nyabando.
