Eldoret: In a collaborative effort, the Uasin Gishu County Government and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) have officially launched the County Statistical Abstract (CSA) for 2025, marking a pivotal step towards data-driven governance and accountability.
According to Kenya News Agency, the launch event was held at the county headquarters in Eldoret, where Governor Jonathan Chelilim highlighted the inception of this comprehensive data report in November 2023. A stakeholder forum initiated the rigorous data collection, analysis, and validation process that laid the groundwork for the report.
Governor Chelilim further underlined the significance of the CSA as a cornerstone for his administration’s Nguzo Kumi Agenda, emphasizing its role in data-driven planning and accountability. Uasin Gishu stands out as the first county to release a statistical abstract this year.
The CSA offers authoritative statistics up to 2024, covering five domains: Demographic and Social, Economic, Environmental, Governance, and Cross-Cutting Issues. The data indicates that Uasin Gishu has experienced steady economic growth, positioning the county 8th nationally in Gross County Product (GCP), which increased from Sh 223.8 billion in 2019 to Sh 349.2 billion in 2024. The service and agriculture sectors remain key contributors to the national GCP.
In terms of population dynamics, the county’s population rose from 1.16 million in 2019 to 1.28 million in 2024, necessitating enhanced urban planning and service delivery. Eldoret’s city status continues to attract new residents, aided by the Affordable Housing initiative championed by President William Ruto, which is alleviating housing pressures.
The youth demographic, aged 18-35, saw significant growth from 396,111 to 453,369, highlighting the need for investments in skills, innovation, and job creation. Governor Chelilim announced the upcoming Fanikisha Vijana programme to provide practical skills and employment opportunities, with a budget of over Sh 165 million allocated for its implementation.
In education, Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) enrolment surged to 52,685, driven by the School Milk Programme. The confirmation of 1,466 ECDE teachers has bolstered quality in early learning. Additionally, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) enrolment rose from 23,036 to 33,201 as the county modernizes 13 Vocational Training Centres and constructs two more.
Healthcare infrastructure expanded with public health facilities increasing from 129 to 146, and medical staff numbers rising from 608 to 1,291. The Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital has made significant strides in maternal and child health, recording 4,462 deliveries since June 2024.
Agriculture and livestock sectors also thrived, with milk production doubling from 216.7 million kilograms to 462.9 million kilograms in 2024, and maize production climbing from 368,475 tons to 414,075 tons, supported by a fertiliser subsidy programme.
The county’s Own Source Revenue grew from Sh779 million to over Sh1.3 billion, reflecting economic momentum. Governance and participation insights from the CSA include voter registration, civic engagement, and access to information and justice.
Digital access is expanding, with six public Wi-Fi hotspots supporting youth empowerment and online job opportunities. The transport sector, particularly the boda-boda industry, continues to grow, benefiting from reduced operational fees.
Water access improved with piped connections increasing from 64,115 to 76,944 households in Eldoret. Business activity saw a significant boost, with licensed businesses rising by 53 percent due to a favorable business environment and licensing reforms.
Public lighting enhancements, including increased streetlights and floodlights, support a 24-hour economy. Uasin Gishu’s business-friendly initiatives earned it top national recognition in the VIFFA CBSI 2025.
Governor Chelilim reiterated the county’s commitment to partnering with KNBS for annual CSA production, strengthening data systems, and fostering transparent, evidence-based planning. The launch event was attended by various county officials, including County Commissioner Dr. Eddyson Nyale and other key personnel.
