The Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP) Component 2 on Social Economic Inclusion has reached a significant milestone, concluding the prioritization of key community-driven projects aimed at improving the living conditions of residents in the informal settlements of Kipkaren and Mwanzo in Uasin Gishu County. This phase of KISIP is set to empower marginalized populations, ensuring that local residents are directly involved in the decision-making process to address their unique challenges and enhance their overall well-being.

Ms. Zenah Kurui, the National Representative for the Social Economic Inclusion Component, praised the initiative as a transformative step for the communities of Kipkaren and Mwanzo. “The program will not only improve living conditions but will also serve as a catalyst for community empowerment,” said Kurui. She emphasized the importance of incorporating residents’ perspectives in project planning, ensuring that the interventions are both relevant and effective in tackling the most pressing issues in the settlements.

As part of the prioritization, a comprehensive list of investment projects has been outlined for both Mwanzo and Kipkaren. These projects will focus on social infrastructure, economic opportunities, environmental sustainability, and security.

Mwanzo Site and Service Informal Settlement Prioritized Projects:

Installation of a Social Hall with ICT Centre and Day Care: Aimed at improving access to social services and education for children and adults alike.

Establishment of Market Stalls/ Stands: To support small-scale traders by providing them with proper trading spaces.

Drilling of a Borehole and Construction of a Community Water Point: To improve access to clean water, crucial for both personal and agricultural use.

Girl Empowerment Centre: A facility dedicated to empowering young girls through education and skill-building programs.

Establishment of a Green Hub for Agri-business and Environmental Conservation: Focused on promoting sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation.

Installation of a Police Post: Enhancing community security through a permanent police presence.

Kipkaren Site and Service Informal Settlement Prioritized Projects:

Improvement of Kipkaren Playground: Enhancements will include fencing, grading, and landscaping to make the space more accessible and safer for community use.

Community Centre with Social Hall, Day Care, and ICT Centre: A multi-purpose facility that will offer essential social services and support for children and adults.

Installation of Community Water Point: Ensuring a consistent water supply for the local population.

Installation of Market Stalls for Small-Scale Traders: To foster local economic activity by providing organized spaces for vendors.

Establishment of Solid Waste Collection Points and a Recycling Centre: Addressing environmental concerns by promoting sustainable waste management practices.

Installation of Patrol Police Post: To improve security and ensure a safer environment for residents.

Training on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR): Equipping the community with knowledge and skills to better prepare for and respond to potential disasters.

Ms. Beatrice Menjo, the Coordinator for Component 2 of the program in Uasin Gishu, stated that the investments, which will be executed over the coming months, are expected to not only improve infrastructure but also enhance social cohesion, economic stability, and environmental sustainability.

“As the community-driven projects move into the implementation phase, the residents of Kipkaren and Mwanzo are poised to benefit from lasting changes that will elevate their standard of living and promote a more inclusive, sustainable future,” said Ms. Menjo