Elgeyo Marakwet County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, Urban Development and Energy, Wakili Thomas Maiyo, has revealed plans to establish an additional municipality in Kapsowar alongside the development of neighbourhood centres across the count.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement forum, Maiyo said the move is aimed at promoting structured urban growth, improving service delivery, and enhancing economic opportunities in emerging towns. He noted that the proposed municipality status for Kapsowar will accelerate infrastructure development, attract investment, and strengthen urban governance.
“The creation of a new municipality in Kapsowar is part of our broader strategy to guide urban expansion and ensure sustainable land use planning. This will help us deliver essential services more efficiently while opening up new economic opportunities for our people,” Maiyo said.
He added that the county government is also working on establishing neighbourhood centres in key growth areas to bring services closer to residents, stimulate local commerce, and support orderly settlement patterns.
The CECM said the initiatives align with the county’s integrated development plans and the national urban development framework, which seek to promote balanced regional development and reduce pressure on existing urban centres.
Residents and local leaders welcomed the announcement, saying the move would enhance access to government services, boost real estate development, and create employment opportunities, particularly for youth and small-scale traders.
Maiyo assured stakeholders that the county government will undertake public participation and consultative processes before finalising the plans, in line with constitutional requirements and urban planning laws.
The proposed municipality and neighbourhood centres are expected to play a key role in transforming Kapsowar and surrounding areas into vibrant urban hubs while maintaining sustainable land use and environmental conservation across Elgeyo Marakwet County.
