The infrastructure upgrade in two informal settlements in Bungoma county has officially begun.
Officials from the National Project Coordination Team said they were satisfied with the quality of work at Mjini and Landi Matope in Bungoma town and Chwele market respectively.
Workers are already on site to enhance the road networks, drainage systems, water supply, sanitation facilities, and public lighting infrastructure.
The project is funded by the World Bank in collaboration with the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Bungoma government, and other partners.
NPTC National Coordinator Blanton Gitau said the projects are advancing well despite minor challenges, such as delays in relocating electricity poles to facilitate road construction.
"From our visit, it's clear that the project is progressing smoothly, with active involvement from both the Settlement Executive Committee and the community," Gitau said during a visit of the two sites.
Mjini settlement has been in existence since 1965.
Works in Landi Matope include construction of a 2.25km road, footpaths, drainage systems and installation of 22 streetlights.
In Mjini, the works include construction of a 1.588km road, footpaths, 1.846km of drainage systems, a 12.7 km water supply line, a 1.15 km sanitation system, nine streetlights, and the rehabilitation of high mast floodlight.
County Lands, Urban, Physical Planning, Housing, and Municipalities executive Douglas Sasita said the upgrade aims to enhance security, spur business growth and create employment opportunities.
"As a county, we greatly appreciate these projects. They will significantly transform the status and appearance of the targeted areas," he said.
He attributed the progress to the strong collaboration between national and county teams, consultants, and community representatives.
