For the first time in nearly three decades, traffic lights are returning to the streets of Eldoret — and this time, they're here to stay.
With installation works nearing completion along key junctions of the Uganda Highway, Eldoret City is undergoing a long-overdue traffic infrastructure upgrade to keep up with its rapidly growing population and vehicle numbers. The ambitious project, spearheaded by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii, marks a defining moment in the city's evolution since attaining official city status in August 2024.
“Keeping our city in check! Traffic lights installation underway,” Governor Bii announced on social media three months ago, setting the tone for what is now being hailed as a major step toward urban modernization.
A City on the Move
Eldoret, now home to over 700,000 people, sees more than 300,000 vehicles and 5,000 boda bodas navigate its roads daily. The resulting congestion and road safety concerns have prompted county leaders to rethink traffic management across the bustling city.
Traffic lights are currently being installed at several busy intersections along Uganda Road — including near Daima Towers, the Juma Haji roundabout, and junctions leading to Pioneer Estate and Kapsoya. These signals are expected to ease gridlocks, reduce collisions, and create safer conditions for both motorists and pedestrians.
“This is about safety, efficiency, and preparing Eldoret for the future. A functioning traffic light system is fundamental to any modern city,” said a county transport official involved in the rollout.
Learning from the Past
This isn’t Eldoret’s first attempt at traffic signalization. In the early 1990s, then-mayor Josiah Magut oversaw the city's initial traffic light installation. But confusion reigned — many drivers interpreted red lights as a danger signal and sped through intersections, leading to accidents and the immediate abandonment of the project.
Now, with improved planning, public education campaigns, and a generation of more informed road users, the county hopes this second attempt will succeed where the first failed.
Addressing the Challenges
Despite widespread excitement, the change won’t come without hurdles. Many drivers — particularly boda boda operators and matatu drivers — are unfamiliar with navigating traffic-light-controlled junctions. To address this, the county government and traffic police plan to launch an awareness and training campaign to help residents adapt before the system goes live.
Governor Bii has urged drivers to begin adjusting now. “We are asking all residents to learn and respect traffic light signals. This is your city — let’s move forward together.”
More Than Just Lights
Beyond easing congestion, the new traffic light system is expected to bring broader economic and social benefits. Improved road safety means fewer accidents and lower medical and repair costs. Smoother commutes could reduce fuel waste and stress. And the more organized cityscape could attract new investors, positioning Eldoret as a key economic node in Kenya’s North Rift region.
"This is a win for business and a win for families," said Jane Cherop, a local trader near the Kapsoya market. "No more guessing at busy junctions. It’s about time!"
Looking Ahead
As Eldoret transitions into its new city identity, the traffic light installation stands as a symbol of urban growth and modernization. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through county bulletins and local media, especially as the commissioning date nears.
From schoolchildren at Kapsaos to traders at Eldoret Sports Club, everyone has a role to play in embracing and adapting to this change.
Eldoret is lighting the way — literally and figuratively — toward a smarter, safer, and more connected urban future.
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