Kaimosi town: Kaimosi Town in Hamisi Constituency has officially been conferred municipality status, becoming the second municipality in Vihiga County after Governor Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo signed and handed over the Kaimosi Municipality Charter in a ceremony.
According to Kenya News Agency, the conferment, undertaken in line with Article 184 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, marks a milestone in the county’s urban development agenda and is expected to enhance planning, governance, and service delivery.
Governor Ottichilo, speaking during the event, described the occasion as a historic achievement that would shape the future of Kaimosi. He thanked the National Government, development partners, stakeholders, and the people of Hamisi for their patience and commitment.
The governor noted that the new municipality would have a municipal board and administration to oversee orderly planning and development in accordance with the law. He highlighted that the new status would enable Kaimosi to access additional funding, grants, and resources, leading to improved infrastructure and public services.
Investments are planned for roads, markets, water and sanitation services, street lighting, parking facilities, public recreational spaces, sports and cultural facilities, and agricultural support programs. Ottichilo added that the municipality would attract investors, create employment opportunities, increase the value of land and property, strengthen accountability, and improve access to development financing.
Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala welcomed the conferment, noting that it would create new economic opportunities for residents. She emphasized the importance of fairness and transparency in employment opportunities for local residents.
Shiru Ward MCA Bob Mwashi praised the county government for steering the municipality process but expressed concerns over insecurity in the area. Vihiga County Assembly Deputy Speaker Eric Odei termed the conferment a step towards transforming the region through improved urban management and youth employment.
Odei called on the county government to engage national security agencies to enhance security, saying improved safety would encourage investment and development. He mentioned that Sh12 million has been allocated to operationalize the proposed Cheptulu Municipality.
County Physical Planner and Architect Victor Kevaya outlined the journey towards the municipality’s establishment, noting that the process began in 2018 with the preparation of the integrated development plan. The proposal received approval from the County Executive Committee and the County Assembly before extensive public participation led to the preparation and approval of the municipal charter.
During the ceremony, Governor Ottichilo officially proclaimed Kaimosi a municipality, unveiled its official symbols, and handed over the municipality charter. Kaimosi now becomes the second municipality in Vihiga County after Vihiga Municipality. The new municipality will comprise Kaimosi and its surrounding urban areas, including Muhudu, Shiru, and Shamakhokho, and is expected to improve urban governance, service delivery, and economic development in the region.
