President William Ruto announced on Sunday that Meru will become Kenya's sixth city after Eldoret received the designation. The president said government officials are discussing the elevation while plans advance to build a State Lodge in the region by December. Ruto stated the facility will host consultations about Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, and the surrounding areas.
The Urban Areas and Cities Act of 2011 governs city status conferment in Kenya. Towns must meet requirements that include a minimum population of 250,000 residents, sufficient revenue generation capacity, and proper urban planning with integrated development plans. Eldoret qualified with approximately 475,716 people, and revenue potential exceeding 2.5 billion shillings. Public participation hearings for Eldoret drew more than 200 stakeholders, with roughly 99 percent approving the elevation.
The Urban Areas and Cities Act of 2011 governs city status conferment in Kenya. Towns must meet requirements that include a minimum population of 250,000 residents, sufficient revenue generation capacity, and proper urban planning with integrated development plans. Eldoret qualified with approximately 475,716 people, and revenue potential exceeding 2.5 billion shillings. Public participation hearings for Eldoret drew more than 200 stakeholders, with roughly 99 percent approving the elevation.
