Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich has launched infrastructural improvement programme for Cheptongei and Chebiemit centres in Marakwek West Sub County aimed at upgrading the status of the two centres.

Speaking while presiding over the launch and groundbreaking ceremony of the project under Kenya Informal Settlement Improvement Project 2 (KISP2) at Cheptongei today, Governor Rotich said the Sh350 million infrastructural works involve the construction of tarmac roads in the two centres, setting up high mast lights, street lighting, and constructing drainage systems, walkways, and vending markets.

The Governor noted that other settlements, including Kambi Debe and Milimani in Iten Municipality, are also slated to benefit from the programme.

‘We aim to strengthen towns across the entire county. Already, we have commenced planning for twenty towns with the support of the World Bank,’ he said. ‘We will expand to other towns including Kapcherop, Kapsowar, Buragar, and Tambach. Planning and titling are alread
y underway,’ Rotich said.

He stressed the importance of urban planning in elevating the status of these towns noting: ‘We want to elevate our towns, but before that, proper planning is essential. The future is urban, and today’s youth prefer living in urban areas. With this progress, we will utilize rural land for agri-business. Everyone should plant cash crops and food crops to boost business, which will, in turn, create employment for our youth and improve the lives of Elgeyo Marakwet residents,’ he stated.

He added that the county will continue to seek partnerships to further develop and upgrade its towns. ‘After the project is complete, the towns will not be the same again. It will transform and enhance the lives of the people,’ Governor Rotich assured.

Hilary Kiplagat, MCA for Moiben-Kuserwo ward, expressed his gratitude for the project, emphasising its positive impact on the local community. ‘The project is highly appreciated, and the people of Moiben Kuserwo will greatly benefit from the improved in
frastructure. It will also provide employment opportunities for the youth, who the contractor will hire. I believe this area will see significant changes,’ he said.

Kiplagat urged residents to cooperate with the contractor, ensuring a conducive environment for effective project execution.

The project is expected to span two to three years, with other centres across the county being considered in future phases.

Source: Kenya News Agency