This archive report was first published on 5 September 2019.
Located in Elgeyo Marakwet County, Iten, known as the 'Home of Champions', has undergone a remarkable transformation with a Sh89 million facelift financed by the World Bank.
Published on September 5, 2019, the project has seen the town's dusty roads being tarmacked, parking spaces carpeted with cabbro, and a recreational park being constructed along the steep escarpment, giving residents a serene environment.
Previously, Iten was in an economic lull, with Eldoret town being the preferred destination for entrepreneurs looking to set up businesses in the area. However, with the new facilities, investors are now trooping to Iten, which is famed for its prowess in athletics due to its high altitude.
According to Sammy Kiplagat, a local businessman, the town's facelift has brought about a significant change, with businesses opening up and skyscrapers being erected. 'You would have mistaken Iten for a trading centre, but now it can take its rightful status as a town. Many people preferred Eldoret to Iten but not anymore,' he said.
Raymond Omonei, the Iten Municipal Manager, revealed that the British-funded Sustainable Urban Economic Development (SUED) agency will conduct feasibility studies for a proposed sports academy and cable cars system. 'There are a lot of investors and partners who want to open shop in Iten after it was upgraded. Also, there are many financial institutions who want space, an indication that the town is rising,' he said.
Governor Alex Tolgos stated that apart from the facelift, the town will also enjoy improvement of markets, walkways, fire and disaster management amenities, a bus park, and better waste management. 'I am urging business owners in Iten to take advantage of the upgrade to improve their businesses. and those with idle plots within the town to develop them,' he said.
