Nakuru County has been selected as one of the five counties to benefit from Cluster 4 of the Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy (SUPS) in the second phase of the Kenya Informal Settlement Improvement Project (KISIP). The program aims to tackle the challenges posed by existing slums and develop strategies to prevent the growth of informal settlements amid rapid urbanization in the county.
Hon. John Kihagi, the County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, emphasized the urgent need for slum interventions to mitigate the impact on the urban economy and reduce the growing demand for essential services such as housing and healthcare. “The rapid expansion of informal settlements presents a major challenge to our urban centres, putting immense pressure on critical infrastructure and services,” said Kihagi.
The initiative will use seven informal settlements in Nakuru as case studies to identify best practices and develop tailored solutions that address specific local needs. Arch. Kamau Kuria, who attended a meeting with GeoDev officials, highlighted the project’s focus on enhancing living standards in these areas. “This approach will enable us to create sustainable interventions that improve the quality of life for residents of informal settlements,” Kuria noted.
The KISIP initiative aligns with Governor Susan Kihika’s commitment to making cities more livable and improving living conditions through sustainable development. This program supports broader national and continental goals, including Kenya Vision 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, by prioritizing urban renewal and sustainable growth.
The Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy is expected to drive significant improvements in Nakuru’s informal settlements, addressing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, poor housing conditions, and limited access to essential services. The project underscores the county’s dedication to fostering inclusive urban development and ensuring that all residents benefit from ongoing growth and modernization efforts.
