By Faith Cherop
Eldoret, Kenya’s newest city, has taken another step forward in its urban development journey with the official activation of new traffic lights, aimed at easing congestion and improving road safety. The installation marks a significant milestone in the city’s growing infrastructure and modernization efforts.
The traffic lights, now operational at key intersections in Eldoret, are part of a broader urban upgrade funded by a coalition of partners, including Kenya Power, the Uasin Gishu County Government, the Kenya Urban Support Program (KUSP), and the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The initiative is among the first major public infrastructure projects launched since Eldoret was officially conferred city status on August 15, 2024. The declaration elevated Eldoret as Kenya’s fifth city, following Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Kisumu.
“This is a proud moment for Eldoret,” said Uasin Gishu County Governor Jonathan Bii during the unveiling ceremony. “It shows our commitment to creating a modern, safe, and efficient urban environment for our residents and future generations.”
From ‘Farm 64’ to Kenya’s Fastest-Growing City
Eldoret’s transformation has deep historical roots. The city was originally established in 1908 by Afrikaner settlers from South Africa. Known then as Farm 64 or Sisibo, the name referenced its distance—64 miles—from Londiani. Officially renamed Eldoret in 1912, the name is derived from the Maasai word eldore, meaning "stony river," a nod to the rocky bed of the Sosiani River which flows through the city.
Now, over a century later, Eldoret has grown into a bustling metropolis with a population of 475,716, according to the 2019 Kenya National Bureau of Statistics census. It ranks as the fifth most populated urban area in Kenya, trailing only Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Ruiru.
Eldoret is internationally renowned as the "City of Champions" due to its high-altitude conditions and legacy of producing world-class long-distance runners, including Olympic and World champions.
A City on the Rise — But Not Without Challenges
Since its elevation to city status, Eldoret has experienced a surge in infrastructure investment, economic activity, and expansion of higher education institutions. The city’s strategic location as a trade and logistics hub has attracted new businesses and spurred development in the service sector.
However, rapid urbanization has also introduced growing pains. Residents face rising housing costs, the spread of informal settlements, and increased strain on essential services. Environmental concerns, such as waste management and pollution of the Sosiani River, have raised public health alarms. Water tariff hikes and dissatisfaction with service quality from Eldowas, the city’s water provider, are also adding to public frustration.
Despite these challenges, residents have welcomed the traffic light project as a sign of progress. Local boda boda rider Peter Kiptoo said, “These lights help us avoid accidents. It shows we are moving in the right direction.”
Looking Ahead
Eldoret’s leadership has promised continued investment in roads, housing, and social services. Urban planners are also exploring smart city innovations and sustainable solutions to manage growth responsibly.
With its history rooted in resilience and ambition, and its future guided by bold development, Eldoret is lighting a new path—literally and figuratively—for urban Kenya.
As Governor Bii noted, “We are not just building roads and lights—we are building a city that works for everyone.”
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