Business optimism as Eldoret elevated to Kenya's fifth city in elaborate ceremony

Eldoret has officially been elevated to city status, a significant milestone for the town as it joins the ranks of Kenya’s major urban centres.

The announcement was made during a formal ceremony held in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County on Thursday.

President William Ruto presided over the historic event, during which he signed the charter and affixed the government seal to formally confer city status upon Eldoret.

“I, Kipchirchir William Samoei Ruto, president of the Republic of Kenya and Commander in Chief of Kenya’s Defence Forces do hereby ordain, declare and direct that the municipality of Eldoret has been conferred with city status,” Ruto declared, marking a new chapter for the town.

The ceremony was a grand affair, reflecting the significance of the occasion.

It was attended by a diverse group of guests, including athletes who had recently competed in the Paris Olympics, where Kenya achieved a remarkable haul of 11 medals.

Their presence symbolised Eldoret’s new identity as a city of champions, highlighting its contributions to Kenya's sporting success.

Students from various local schools also participated, witnessing the historic moment and underscoring the importance of the event for the younger generation.

Additionally, officers from the Kenya Defence Forces played a pivotal role in the proceedings, adding a sense of national pride and ceremony to the occasion.

The elevation of Eldoret follows a thorough application process and subsequent approval by the Senate, reflecting a significant development for the town.

As Kenya’s fifth city, Eldoret joins the ranks of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru.

This upgrade is expected to bring increased recognition, development, and opportunities to the region, solidifying its place in the nation’s urban landscape.