Eldoret Officially Named Kenya’s Fifth City: Governor Bii to Appoint New Board as President Ruto Grants City Charter
On Thursday, Kenya will officially introduce its fifth city, Eldoret, with Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii appointing a nine-member board to oversee its administration.
President William Ruto will attend the event to present the city charter to Governor Bii, making Eldoret the newest addition to Kenya’s list of cities, joining Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru.
As per the schedule, Ruto will first attend a short ceremony at the county headquarters before traveling through Eldoret to the Eldoret Sports Club, where the city’s new status will be announced.
“We are thrilled about our town’s new city status and are eager to start working towards transforming it into a major hub in the country and beyond,” said Bii.
Eldoret has fulfilled all criteria for city status, but with its population exceeding one million, significant efforts will be needed to enhance infrastructure and services such as schools and hospitals.
Ruto will briefly visit the county headquarters and then tour the town with support from residents and businesses.
“Every required procedure has been followed precisely, and as the city develops, the involvement of residents in its management will increase,” he noted.
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Previously managed by a seven-member board under Koiyet, the new city board will expand to nine members as mandated by law.
The county has retained its current logo, used since 1964, which was created by white settler Derric Stab.
The logo has sparked controversy among residents, some of whom feel its elements conflict with their religious beliefs.
Featuring a green color scheme, the logo includes a rising sun, a cow, a maize cob, a ribbon, a Nubian giraffe, ploughed land, and maize leaves.
Koiyet defended the logo, stating that it has been a symbol of the town since Independence and carries no hidden meanings.
“The logo was designed during a time when most residents were Kalenjins, who greatly value the sun as a symbol of divine power. The cow represents an essential part of local life, providing sustenance and signifying life,” he explained.
Koiyet emphasized that the logo’s elements are rooted in Christian values and reflect the economic and social practices of the local community.
With Eldoret’s elevation to city status, new opportunities will arise for the region’s residents and the county has hosted various events, including a cultural festival, to celebrate its new status.
Eldoret Officially Named Kenya’s Fifth City: Governor Bii to Appoint New Board as President Ruto Grants City Charter
