Eldoret Becomes the 5th City of Kenya
Eldoret, known as the “Home of Champions,” is now officially a city. President William Ruto awarded Eldoret its city charter and seal, making it Kenya’s fifth city after Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru.
Eldoret is the headquarters of Uasin Gishu County. It sits along Uganda Road, south of the Cherangani Hills, at an altitude of 2,100 meters. President Ruto celebrated the city’s elevation at Eldoret Sports Club, praising the efforts behind this achievement. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Cabinet secretaries, governors from 14 counties, MPs, senators, and many Kenyans attended the event.
Earlier, President Ruto hosted Kenya’s Olympic team for breakfast at Eldoret State Lodge. He rewarded medalists with cash prizes. He then led a procession from the State Lodge to the venue, where he officially crowned Eldoret as a city.
Before the announcement, President Ruto signed the city status law. Felix Kosgei, Head of Civil Service, handed the seal and other instruments of power to the Speaker of the Uasin Gishu County Assembly. Governor Jonathan Bii and the city’s management received the legal documents. He also symbolically handed keys to 14 neighboring counties from western Kenya, highlighting the socioeconomic benefits the new city is expected to bring.
President Ruto outlined plans for Eldoret’s expansion, emphasizing its potential to become a leading city. However, he noted the need for more planning to drive development. Plans include building a dual carriage road from Eldoret to Iten and attracting investors to the area.
Awards
He also highlighted ongoing projects like special economic zones and the construction of 10,000 affordable houses. These initiatives are crucial as Eldoret embraces its new city status. Athletes Vivian Cheruiyot and the late politician Ezekiel Barngetuny received the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS). The government also awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior to former mayor Joseph Lesiew, farmer George Kili, and marathoner Moses Tanui.
City status brings many benefits, including access to more grants, national staff, and increased investment opportunities. Deputy President Gachagua pledged his support for President Ruto’s leadership and urged Eldoret residents to invest in the city’s future, contribute to economic revival, and maintain peace for continued development.
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