High Hopes as Eldoret City Swears in Its First City Board
Minority Leader Francis Muya noted that the board emerged from a thorough vetting process, emphasizing that members were appointed based on merit, expertise and experience.
Speaking during the inauguration, Jonathan Bii Chelilim said the newly formed board must move with speed and purpose to ensure the city lives up to its promise. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The Eldoret City has officially inaugurated its first-ever City Board, marking a significant step in its new journey as a city and setting the stage for accelerated economic growth and sustainable urban transformation.
The board members took the oath of office on Thursday in a historic ceremony held after Eldoret’s elevation to city status. The newly constituted team now carries the mandate of developing policies and strategies aimed at positioning the rapidly expanding urban centre as a leading economic hub in Kenya and across the East African region.
Speaking during the inauguration, Jonathan Bii Chelilim urged the board to act with urgency and determination to ensure the city fulfills its vast potential.
“We are a new city, yes, but we are champions. The board must move swiftly to introduce sound policies that will make Eldoret excel in all sectors,” said Governor Bii.
He highlighted that his administration has already established a strong foundation through major infrastructure upgrades and improved urban planning. Among the key projects is a KSh1 billion investment undertaken in collaboration with the national government to upgrade critical link roads within the city, aimed at reducing congestion and enhancing connectivity. He also referenced the construction of an ultra-modern market designed to stimulate trade and support small-scale traders.
Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea called on the board to work hand in hand with the county government to develop investor-friendly policies that will unlock the city’s economic opportunities.
“We must create a conducive environment that attracts investors and stimulates job creation for our youth,” he said.
Chairperson of the County Assembly’s Housing and Urban Development Committee, Amos Kiptanui, congratulated the board members and expressed confidence in their capacity to steer the city during its formative phase.
Minority Leader Francis Muya noted that the board emerged from a thorough vetting process, emphasizing that members were appointed based on merit, expertise and experience.
MCAs Rebecca Jepchirchir and Moses Kebenei, who also sit on the Housing and Urban Development Committee, echoed the sentiments, urging the board to focus on structured urban growth, efficient service delivery and inclusive development.
Pioneer Board Members
The newly sworn-in City of Eldoret Board comprises:
* Alice Kositany (Chairperson)
* Edward Sawe
* Sammy Bor
* Ruth Limo
* Hilda Kibet
* Titus Yego
* Eng. David Kipsang
* Judy Barmasai
* Edith Kosgei
* Daniel Kamau
* Elzeba Busienei
* David Mais
As Eldoret embraces its new status, residents and stakeholders are keenly observing the board’s next steps, hopeful that it will establish a solid governance framework and transform the city into a benchmark for innovation, investment and modern urban living.
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