Traders in Uasin Gishu County Call for Urgent Drainage Upgrade as Floods Threaten Livelihoods
“Whenever it rains heavily, water flows directly into shops and business premises, causing huge losses. Some traders are forced to close down due to the disruptions, putting livelihoods at risk,” said Mr. Kenei
Uasin Gishu Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Willy Kenei addressing the media during a past event. He has urged county leadership to prioritize drainage upgrades, parking solutions, and infrastructure development in Eldoret
By Juliet Jerotich
Traders in Uasin Gishu County have called upon the county leadership to enhance drainage systems in Eldoret town, warning that persistent flooding continues to disrupt businesses and threaten livelihoods.
Uasin Gishu Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Willy Kenei said flooding remains one of the most pressing concerns, particularly in Bandaptai, Asis area, and near the Eldoret Catholic Diocese, which have been severely affected by flash floods from the ongoing heavy rains.
“Whenever it rains heavily, water flows directly into shops and business premises, causing huge losses. Some traders are forced to close down due to the disruptions, putting livelihoods at risk,” said Mr. Kenei, urging both county and national governments to prioritize fixing Eldoret’s drainage system.
Traffic Lights Easing Congestion
Mr. Kenei, however, commended the county government for installing traffic lights in Eldoret’s Central Business District, particularly along the busy Uganda Highway.
“The traffic lights have eased congestion along Uganda Road and other major streets while enhancing pedestrian safety,” he noted, calling on the county to expand the program to Paul’s Bakery, Daima Towers, and the Kisumu Road flyover.
He further suggested that heavy trucks should be diverted to the southern bypass to decongest the CBD.
Parking Shortage in a Growing City
Parking also remains a major concern following Eldoret’s elevation to city status in 2024.
“It is nearly impossible to find parking after 11 a.m. in the CBD,” Mr. Kenei said, urging enforcement of county bylaws that require all new buildings to have underground parking.
The Uasin Gishu County Assembly has already passed legislation to this effect, with the goal of easing the parking crisis in the fast-growing city.
Infrastructure Key to Growth
Mr. Kenei applauded ongoing road upgrades but urged the county to speed up completion, noting that Eldoret’s swelling population and economic activity demand efficient infrastructure.
“Eldoret’s growth is unstoppable, but it must be matched with proper planning and infrastructure development,” he said.
Eldoret was elevated to Kenya’s fifth city in August 2024, joining Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru. The milestone has increased pressure on urban infrastructure, with traffic congestion, flooding, and parking emerging as urgent challenges for both residents and traders. Recent heavy rains across the Rift Valley have further exposed weak drainage systems, putting businesses at risk of recurring losses.
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