News Categories: Transport and Infrastructure

Kapsabet Town, the administrative hub of Nandi County, is undergoing a significant transformation as part of a comprehensive urban planning and reorganization initiative. Spearheaded by the H.E Governor Stephen Sang EGH, the project aims to address long-standing challenges related to encroachments, congestion, and inadequate infrastructure. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Roads, Transport and Infrastructure, Kapsabet Municipality Board, led by Chairman Mark Maritim, and the Kapsabet Municipality Manager, Alfayo Lel, alongside other key stakeholders.

Yesterday, the CECM for Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Eng. Robert Limo, accompanied by the Kapsabet Municipality Board Chairman Mark Maritim, Municipality Manager Alfayo Lel, Roads, Transport, and Infrastructure Chief Officer David Koech, and a team of municipality enforcement officers, conducted a routine inspection of the ongoing works in Kapsabet Town. The inspection focused on the clearing of encroached pathways, public land, and roads, which are critical steps in paving the way for new developments.

During the inspection, Eng. Limo emphasized that all ongoing works are being carried out in strict adherence to the set laws and regulations. He reiterated the importance of ensuring that the process remains legal, transparent, and beneficial to the residents of Kapsabet. The team also addressed concerns raised by residents regarding temporary disruptions caused by the ongoing works, assuring them that the long-term benefits would far outweigh the short-term inconveniences.

One of the primary objectives of the reorganization initiative is to reclaim public spaces that have been encroached upon over the years. Illegal structures and unauthorized developments have not only hindered the town’s growth but also contributed to traffic congestion and limited access to essential services. The ongoing clearing of pathways and public land is a crucial step in creating a more organized and functional urban environment.

The Municipality Manager Alfayo Lel highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating that the reclaimed spaces would be utilized for the construction of modern infrastructure, including wider roads, pedestrian walkways, and public amenities. These improvements are expected to enhance the overall quality of life for residents and attract new investments to the town.

While the reorganization initiative has been widely welcomed, some residents have expressed concerns about the temporary disruptions caused by the ongoing works. In response, the inspection team reassured the public that every effort is being made to minimize inconveniences. Eng. Limo emphasized that the long-term benefits of the project, including improved infrastructure, enhanced mobility, and increased economic opportunities, would significantly outweigh the short-term challenges.

The team also encouraged residents to cooperate with the authorities and report any illegal activities or encroachments to ensure the success of the initiative. By working together, the community can play a vital role in shaping the future of Kapsabet Town.

The ongoing reorganization of Kapsabet Town is part of a broader vision of Governor Sang’s administration to transform the town into a modern, sustainable urban center. The initiative aligns with the county government’s commitment to promoting economic growth, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. As the works progress, Kapsabet is poised to become a model for effective urban planning and development in the region.

The efforts led by Eng. Robert Limo, Mark Maritim, Alfayo Lel, and their team underscore the importance of proactive urban planning and community engagement in achieving sustainable development. With the support of residents and stakeholders, Kapsabet Town is on track to realizing its full potential as a thriving urban center in Nandi County.

In a significant move towards improving the infrastructure of Kapsabet town, Chief Officer for Transport and Infrastructure, David Koech, alongside Kapsabet Municipality Manager, Alfayo Lel, conducted a thorough inspection of the ongoing road works in the area. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity and accessibility within the municipality, which is crucial for both economic development and the well-being of its residents.

The inspection focused on several key road projects, including the grading, gravelling, and compaction of vital routes such as the CITC-Department of Trade Offices, MCH-ICT Centre, ICT Centre-Keben, and the Kipchoge Keino Stadium-Slaughterhouse roads. These roads are not only essential for daily commuting but also play a pivotal role in facilitating trade and access to services in the region.

During the inspection, Koech emphasized the importance of quality infrastructure in fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents. “Well-maintained roads are the backbone of any thriving community. They enable businesses to operate efficiently, provide access to essential services, and enhance the overall mobility of our citizens,” he stated.

The ongoing road works are expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve safety for motorists and pedestrians alike. The grading and gravelling processes are designed to create a more stable and durable road surface, while compaction ensures that the roads can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. This comprehensive approach to road construction reflects the municipality’s commitment to investing in sustainable infrastructure that meets the needs of its growing population.

Kapsabet Municipality Manager Alfayo Lel echoed Koech’s sentiments, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the municipality and various stakeholders to ensure the successful completion of these projects. “We are dedicated to working hand-in-hand with our community and partners to deliver infrastructure that not only meets current demands but also anticipates future growth,” Lel remarked.

The inspection also provided an opportunity for Koech and Lel to engage with local contractors and workers involved in the road works. They expressed their appreciation for the hard work and dedication shown by the teams on the ground, acknowledging that their efforts are instrumental in bringing these projects to fruition.

As Kapsabet continues to develop and expand, the focus on infrastructure improvement remains a top priority for under Governor Stephen Sang’s leadership. The ongoing road works are just one aspect of a larger vision aimed at enhancing the town’s overall infrastructure.

The CECM for Transport and Infrastructure, Eng Robert Limo, officially assumed office today, taking over the reins from the CECM Administration, Public Service and ICT Isaiah Ketter who has been acting in the said office, after a handover ceremony at Roads and Infrastructure offices in Kapsabet Town. Engineer Limo now takes on the critical task of overseeing the county’s transport and infrastructure development.

The handover ceremony which was presided over by the Deputy County Secretary Dr Lydia Kosgei and attended by senior officials led by the and the Chief Officer Hon David Koech, concluded with a renewed commitment by the staff to work towards enabling the realization of the Governor Sang’s Transformation Agenda, by providing efficient roads and transport systems and services, that will enhance the quality of life for all Nandi residents.

Chemelil-Chemase ward is a sugarcane growing area, and roads are essential to maintaining the flow of the cash crop into factories and markets.

David Koech, the chief officer for transport and infrastructure, accompanied by area MCA Hon. Martin Douglas, inspected several ongoing road works in the ward today.

These included the grading, spot improvement, and compaction of Bugon-Chemutia road; the grading, gravelling, and compaction of Kibisem No. 4 road; and the grading and gravelling of Kapcheplanget-Timtui and Tambul roads.

Together with the Kibos Sugar Company and the Karebe Gold Mining Company, the county administration is looking into these roads for it to be passable for agricultural transportation.

The County Department of Transport and Infrastructure through the Public Works section is charged with the role of providing expertise, supervision and routine assessment of all construction works in the county.

It’s offering these services in both public and private utilities whether industrial, residential or for commercial purposes. This is to ensure that construction regulations are adhered to and the quality of work is maintained at all levels.

This section is achieving this with the development of proper designs & plans, regular site visits & continuous inspection of all buildings under construction as well as routine assessment of buildings currently under use.

Today the Engineers from Public works witnessed the handing over of new Form Two(2) Block at Kapsabet Boys High School.

New Form Two Block at Kapsabet Boys High school

Among other construction works under their supervision include all county government projects, County Assembly offices, schools projects, ACK Kapsabet Diocese Plaza and private business premises.

In bid to increase connectivity in the county through improvement of road network, the department of Transport and infrastructure is currently engaging Claycrete Technology Company for soil stabilization.

Claycrete technology is certified, zero-harm, chemical soil stabilizer used in all forms of soil stabilization. It involves stabilization of clay gravel and limestone soils into strong, permanent, load-bearing and water resistant road or pavements.

Implementation of this technology reduces the overall cost of construction and maintenance of earth roads as it increases its durability for up to 5years. The Claycrete technology company is carrying out it’s second piloting in Nandi for North Rift and Western Kenya region.

Speaking during the stabilization of road connecting the Nandi textile and Mosoriot Bus park, the CECM for Transport and Infrastructure, Eng. Drice Rono highlighted that the technology is the best solution in enhancing durable rural roads countywide.

According to Wicliffe Shilaho , the Managing Director Claycrete technology Company, this technology has been first implemented in Makueni County in 2018 and Nandi is following suite as Kisumu and Siaya aspire for the same.

Nandi CECM for Transport and Infrastructure also had an opportunity to host CECs, Chief Officers and Engineers from the Noreb Counties of Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot and Baringo. The team were on a benchmark mission on the Claycrete technology as it is being implemented in Nandi.

Engineers play a vital role in the society as they provide solutions that have continually improved the quality of life, added business value, and significantly influenced the global economy.

On a daily basis, millions of people entrust their health and personal safety to products and applications that engineers develop .It is therefore important to ensure that the engineers possess the right knowledge, skills, meet professional standards and hold the relevant professional experience.

The County Secretary, Dr. Francis Sang, Eng. Alice Mutai together with a team of County Engineers.

Professional registration demonstrates that engineers should meet these required professional standards that gives the public, employers and their clients the confidence to work with them. The county government of Nandi is working with relevant professional bodies to ensure that its staff are well registered.

Today the registrar of Kenya Engineers Technology Registration Board (KETRB), Eng. Alice Mutai visited the county government of Nandi as the board aspires to partner with the county in ensuring all engineers are qualified, certified and registered. It will also support the county in capacity building of these engineers.

CECM for Transport and Infrastructure, Eng. Drive Rono(right) together with the County Secretary.

Tens of families in various parts of Nandi County have been advised to move to safer grounds due to fear of possible landslides.

Transport and Infrastructure CEC Eng. Drice Rono said that the county government of Nandi together with aid agencies are working in unison to ensure that flood victims in parts of Kapsimotwa and Chemelil/Chemase ward have shelter, adequate clean and safe drinking water during the flood period.

The CEC also cautioned motorists plying flooded sections of the roads not to risk their lives by crossing with their vehicles.

According to the CECM, the affected bridges and culverts were Kapsean, Ng’amwo, Kapsoito, Kapmasai and Kimwani. He pointed out that desilting works were already underway in King’wal and Kimwani bridge, with the former resuming operations this afternoon after the desiltation was completed. Similar works will be extended to the other affected areas.

He was speaking while leading county machines in unblocking waterways and blocked bridges.

He was accompanied by the Transport and Infrastructure Chief Officer Jonah Tireito and Kapsimotwa Ward MCA Hon. Rael Rotich.

Rural access roads are the lifeline for people living along the roads, and they provide intra- and near-village transport connecting the houses and farms in various communities.

A hilly and remote village in Songhor/Soba Ward, Tindiret Sub County is today enjoying a new lease of life.

This follows the completion of the over 17 kilometre Taunet – Koromi – Cheboingong – Maraba road, the first-ever stretch of rural access road, meandering all the way to the sleepy Cheboingong village.

Residents are further celebrating the connection of the area to the national grid under the Rural Electrification Programme, earmarked to light up Cheboingong and adjacent localities for the first time in independent Kenya.

Impoverished and hard to access Cheboingong and Koromi residents have had to walk for kilometres to access hospitals, school and water among other basic commodities.

The reality today, is the ecstatic residents are lost for words in describing the development many never thought they would see in their lifetime.

Retired Senior Chief Wilson Ketter, a resident said he never imagined seeing a road pass through the “forgotten” village.

He says the new road will open up the area and greatly improve the lives of mothers and children who have endured agony while trying to access far-away medical facilities.

“Women had to be ferried in sacks to give birth in hospital. This road will reduce child mortality rates and maternal deaths during delivery,” said Cllr Paul Letting.

Chepchule, a boda boda operator noted the time used in traveling between Maraba and Taunet has now become short due to the opening up of the new road.

A local cereal trader Ms Teresa, was glad that the new road would now help traders and farmers to transport their produce to Maraba market on time and in good condition.

According to the Department of Transport and Infrastructure, the Taunet – Maraba access road will help improve connectivity and reduce travel time in Tindiret sub county.

The County Department of Transport and Infrastructure continues to open up various areas within the county to ease mobility.

The roadworks is meant to rehabilitate major connection routes to improve trade and shorten the time spent between major trading centers.

To foster economic development of rural Nandi, the County Government of Nandi is opening up Maraba – Kabolebo – Romorio Road. The road connects the two Wards of Songhor/Soba and Tindiret Ward in Tinderet sub county.

The road connects the urban trading town of Maraba to the rural areas and it significantly reduces travel time, and increases vehicular movement along the route, making access to markets, educational institutions, Meteitei hospital, Tindiret sub county offices and other social services critical for economic growth and development of Tindiret easier.

The road is part of Governor Stephen Sang’s infrastructural transformation that seeks to open up areas that were difficult to access.