Bungoma, a picturesque county on the slopes of Mt Elgon, is renowned for its rich culture and history. Its capital, Bungoma Town, began as a trading centre in the early 20th century.
The county’s proximity to Uganda has boosted trade, and its fertile soils support agriculture. The hospitable and industrious people from various communities have contributed to its success.
Over the years, Bungoma Town has grown into a vibrant hub of commerce, education, and culture. It is now seeking to become the country’s sixth city, a status that promises to elevate it further.
“It is my dream to ensure that Bungoma. Town becomes a city in my lifetime,” said Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
During his recent visit to the county, President William Ruto revealed that plans are underway to elevate Bungoma Town to city status, bringing prestige, autonomy, and increased resources.
To be classified as a city in Kenya, a town must meet several key requirements under the Urban Areas and Cities Act, which gives effect to Article 184 of the Constitution.
The Act outlines the criteria for establishing urban areas, principles of governance, and resident participation.
Firstly, a town must have good infrastructure, including roads, street lighting, markets, fire stations, waste disposal, and disaster management capacity.
Secondly, it must have integrated development plans and the ability to generate sufficient revenue to sustain operations.
Thirdly, it must demonstrate prudent management and the capacity to deliver essential services effectively and efficiently.
Lastly, the town must have a population of at least 500,000 residents according to the latest census.
Bungoma Town meets some of these requirements but must do more. Recent projects unveiled by President William Ruto have set the town on the right path to city status.
President Ruto inaugurated two colleges in Bungoma County, enhancing their digital facilities in line with the Bottom-Up Transformation Agenda.
The county has 44 tertiary education institutions, including Kibabii University and branches of Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, positioning it as a key education hub.
Infrastructure development is also crucial. President Ruto launched various projects, including the tarmacking of the Mayanja- Bisunu-Sirisia and Mukhweya-Musese and Mukhweya-Kimukung roads in Kabuchai, Bungoma County.
“Urbanisation is critical in fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by uplifting living standards and providing human dignity while improving access to services and security, said Kenya Urban and Roads Authority Director General Silas Kinoti, noting the region has received 21km of tarmacked road.
The county government has launched a street-lighting project boosting economic activities around the clock. “If you are not sure of the names, just name them according to the constituencies, for example, Tongaren Road,” Speaker Wetang’ula suggested while advocating for city status.
Significant investment has also been made in the Matulo Airstrip, upgraded with a new runway. President Ruto stated it would become an international facility.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the airstrip is expected to see increased traffic, serving residents in the Western region and neighbouring Uganda due to its proximity.
“We are working to acquire more land to expand it to 2.5 kilometres and increase traffic directly to the airstrip,” he said.
Once Bungoma is made a city, it will attract local and international investors, leading to economic growth and job creation. This means more people from rural areas or smaller towns seeking better employment and living conditions will flock there.