Uasin Gishu County and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to a friendship that has thrived for more than two decades, promising a fresh wave of partnerships to benefit residents and strengthen local development.
This renewed pledge came on Thursday when the Acting U.S. Ambassador to Kenya and Chargé d’Affaires, Ms. Carla Benini, paid a courtesy call on Governor Jonathan Bii at the County Headquarters in Eldoret.
Benefits of Eldoret-Minneapolid relationship
For 25 years, Eldoret and Minneapolis in the United States have shared a sister city relationship that has delivered tangible benefits.
These include capacity building for professionals, exchange programs, and the donation of fire engines and ambulances to support the fast-growing city. The relationship has also facilitated cultural exchanges and technical training opportunities for the 0youth.
The latest engagement, both leaders agreed, is about turning that history into even greater opportunities.
Discussions centered on attracting new investments, expanding healthcare access, growing markets for local farmers, boosting sports exchanges, and empowering the youth to be active players in the county’s economic growth.
“Uasin Gishu and the USA are good partners whose friendship dates back more than 20 years. Your visit today is a testament to our continued relations that have benefited our residents,” Governor Bii said.
He noted that recent engagements had already paved the way for progress in waste management, healthcare, trade, agriculture, and emergency response, with new projects expected to take shape in the coming months.
On her part, Ms. Benini underscored America’s interest in deepening ties with Uasin Gishu.
“My presence here today underscores how much we value the City of Eldoret and Kenya across all sectors. I am glad you are keen on strengthening sister city ties with Minneapolis,” she said.
What US ambassador said about Uasin Gishu’s healthcare
The envoy praised the county’s achievements in healthcare, noting that its 138 health facilities have delivered solutions for residents. She also lauded Eldoret’s global reputation in athletics, calling it a critical hub for talent development.
Governor Bii assured potential investors of a welcoming and supportive business environment.
“We have constant water supply, available land, stable electricity, and a favourable investment climate. Our active workforce, Export Processing Zone, and international airport provide a solid foundation for exports and economic growth,” he said.
Officials on both sides expressed optimism that this visit would set the stage for new projects, reaffirming the Eldoret–Minneapolis partnership as a model for global city-to-city cooperation.
