Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii has lauded the remarkable transformation of Eldoret, noting that the new Eldoret City is fast becoming a vibrant economic hub contributing greatly to the national economy through enterprise, tourism, and hospitality.
Speaking during Jamhuri Day Celebrations at St. Paul’s Makongi in Soy Sub-County, Dr. Bii said the elevation of Eldoret to Kenya’s fifth city has unlocked new opportunities for investors, professionals, and innovators.
“For the first time, we are witnessing a surge in high-level conferences, cultural festivals, business exhibitions, and social events, turning Eldoret from a sporting city into a vibrant economic hub,” said the Governor.
He revealed that his administration has entered into a strategic partnership with the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) to strengthen the city’s position in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, ensuring Eldoret remains a key destination for business tourism.
Dr. Bii further noted that the county is diversifying its tourism portfolio by developing Kesses Dam in Kesses Sub-County into a water-based attraction, promoting cultural tourism, and improving nature-based destinations, positioning Eldoret as a premier tourism destination in the North Rift region and beyond.
The Governor highlighted his administration’s focus on modern urban development through improved street lighting and the creation of safe public spaces to enhance security and support business growth.
He praised the recently approved Eldoret Solar Street Lighting Project as a landmark Public-Private Partnership showcasing the county’s commitment to sustainability, safety, and smart urban growth.
“This 3MW/10MWh green energy project will provide 98 percent solar lighting coverage, integrate CCTV with facial recognition, smart LED systems, and free public Wi-Fi, creating a modern environment where people can work, walk, and transact safely,” stated Dr. Bii.
He added that through the Stima Mashinani Programme and the Transformer Maximization Project in partnership with the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), the county has already connected more than 900 households across all six sub-counties to electricity.
By Ekuwam Sylvester
