Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has hosted governors from the North Rift ahead of the conferment of Eldoret town to city status on August 8.
Those present were Stephen Sang (Nandi,Wisley Rotich (Elgeyo Marakwet) and Jeremiah Lomurukai (Turkana), who said the elevation would boost the economic fortunes of the region.
Sang is the chairman of the North Rift Economic Bloc.
Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago and MPs from the region were also present.
He said Eldoret is abundantly blessed with a rich heritage and it would be a major destination for tourism.
President William Ruto will be in Eldoret to hand over the city charter to the governor.
“We are excited and ready to host the President and all visitors as we celebrate the new city of Eldoret,” Bii said.
He said residents, members of the business community and leaders would be involved during preparations for the conferment ceremony.
“We have waived for 10 days all related charges to help the business community in beautification of the town to prepare for the big day,” he said.
Building owners have been asked to repaint all their premises.
Sang said Eldoret is a regional hub and attaining city status would benefit the entire region.
“As a region, we expect to reap big with major developments in infrastructure and other sectors. Within five years we will witness major transformation,” he said.
The Nandi governor said neighbouring towns, such as Kapsabet, Kitale and Iten would also benefit. He added that the new city would attract several investors to help create job opportunities for residents.
Sang cited the planned expansion of the Eldoret International Airport.
Eldoret will be Kenya’s fifth city after Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa and Nakuru.