Uasin Gishu County: Uasin Gishu County, like any other progressive devolved unit in Kenya, has witnessed significant investment in road infrastructure. This includes the construction of new bridges, box culverts, roads, and the upgrade of existing ones, all of which have had a direct impact on economic activities by ensuring easier and faster transportation of goods and residents.
According to Kenya News Agency, under the leadership of Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii, Uasin Gishu County has seen the completion of several critical bridges and culverts across the region. The County boss has been leading the inspection of some of the projects, maintaining his government's commitment to enhanced mobility across the county to ensure that the road network enables farmers and residents to transport farm produce to markets easily and timely.
"As a county, our target has been gravelling of about 300 kilometres and grading of over 1000 kilometres of inter-ward roads every financial year. The road upgrade program I launched has also involved opening of new roads in our rural and urban areas, drainage lines. Traffic flow in Eldoret City has improved and we hope it will be smoother moving forward as we enhance our tarmacking programs," Governor Bii said.
The progress of maintaining urban roads and streets, such as the tarmacking of Bandaptai road and paving of Farmers Street in Eldoret City, and the tarmacking of roads in Mwanzo, Shauri, Maili Nne, and Kipkaren estates, are among the infrastructure development projects. The County administration anticipates these projects will not only improve transport infrastructure for economic and social growth but will also ensure easy access to markets for agricultural inputs and residents.
The governor noted that they are keen on infrastructure development and public works in a bid to enhance economic growth, improve mobility, and connect supply chains. The County Roads Executive Eng. Joseph Lagat said they have been achieving the targets and by May under the 2024-2025 financial year, the devolved unit had completed grading 900 kilometres and had graveled over 100 kilometres of roads across the county.
"So far, the number of completed and ongoing bridges and box culverts under the 2024-2025 financial year are over 18. However, the administration has constructed over 30 bridges and box culverts, some have been completed and others are ongoing," he added.
Besides roads, another big milestone is upgrading the fire and rescue department to enhance emergency services. Governor Bii commissioned two water bowsers, each with a capacity of carrying 16,000 litres of water and can draw water from an open source instead of running back to the station to draw water from the main hydrant.
Chief Officer for Roads Geoffrey Tanui noted that the impact of the road projects extends beyond transportation. "Improved road networks have enhanced access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, fostering economic growth and social development. Our farmers can now transport their produce more efficiently, businesses have better access to customers, and students can attend school without the hindrances of poor road conditions," noted Tanui.