Kaimosi Town in Hamisi Constituency has officially been conferred municipality status, becoming the second municipality in Vihiga County after Governor Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo signed and handed over the Kaimosi Municipality Charter in a colourful ceremony.
The conferment, undertaken in line with Article 184 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, marks a significant milestone in the county’s urban development agenda and is expected to enhance planning, governance and service delivery.
Speaking during the event, Governor Ottichilo described the occasion as a historic achievement that would shape the future of Kaimosi for generations to come.
“Today we are making history by conferring municipality status upon Kaimosi Town. This process has confirmed that Kaimosi is ready for urban status. I thank the National Government, development partners, stakeholders and the people of Hamisi for their patience and commitment throughout this journey,” said the governor.
He noted that the new municipality will have a municipal board and administration to oversee orderly planning and development in accordance with the law.
The governor said the new status would enable Kaimosi to access additional funding, grants and development resources, leading to improved infrastructure and public services.
He said investments would be directed towards roads, markets, water and sanitation services, street lighting, parking facilities, public recreational spaces, sports and cultural facilities, as well as agricultural support programmes.
Ottichilo added that the municipality would attract investors, create employment opportunities for young people, increase the value of land and property, strengthen accountability and improve access to development financing.
He emphasized that proper physical planning would protect road reserves, safeguard residents from environmental hazards and ensure sustainable urban growth.
Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala welcomed the conferment, saying it would create new economic opportunities for residents.
“I celebrate this milestone because it will benefit families, young people seeking jobs, traders, farmers and all residents. This is just the beginning, and we must continue working together to build a strong municipality,” she said.
Adagala also urged those who will be appointed to the municipal board to ensure fairness and transparency in employment opportunities for local residents.
Shiru Ward MCA Bob Mwashi lauded the county government for successfully steering the municipality process but raised concerns over insecurity in the area.
Vihiga County Assembly Deputy Speaker Eric Odei termed the conferment a major step towards transforming the region through improved urban management, saying it would create employment opportunities for the youth while promoting responsive and people-centred leadership.
He called on the county government to engage relevant national security agencies to enhance security, saying improved safety would encourage investment and development. He further revealed that Sh12 million has been allocated to operationalise the proposed Cheptulu Municipality.
County Physical Planner and Architect Victor Kevaya outlined the journey towards the municipality’s establishment, noting that the process began in 2018 with the preparation of the integrated development plan.
He said the proposal was approved by the County Executive Committee and the County Assembly before undergoing extensive public participation, culminating in the preparation and approval of the municipal charter.
During the ceremony, Governor Ottichilo officially proclaimed Kaimosi a municipality, unveiled its official symbols and handed over the municipality charter.
Kaimosi now becomes the second municipality in Vihiga County after Vihiga Municipality. The new municipality will comprise Kaimosi and its surrounding urban areas, including Muhudu, Shiru and Shamakhokho, and is expected to improve urban governance, service delivery and economic development in the region.
By Crispinus Ivan and Rose Wasike
