Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has proposed changing the name of Uasin Gishu County to Eldoret County, saying the current name often confuses people, especially those who live outside the region.
Governor Bii explained that most people, both Kenyans and foreigners, know the area by the name of its largest city, Eldoret. He believes that renaming the county after the city will make it easier to identify the area and promote its profile nationally and internationally.
“People are confused when they hear Uasin Gishu,” the governor said. “Most Kenyans recognize Eldoret more than the county’s official name. Changing it will make things clearer for everyone.”
Supporters of the Name Change
Some residents and local leaders support the proposal. They say that using the name Eldoret for the county reflects the identity of the area better. They argue that Eldoret is well-known for its economic growth, schools, and sports, and renaming the county could make it easier to market the area for tourism and investment.
A local business owner said, “Most of our clients and partners from outside the region know Eldoret, not Uasin Gishu. Changing the name will make it easier to attract investors and visitors.”
Supporters also say the change could make it easier for people to locate the county on maps, in travel guides, and online platforms. They believe this could help boost trade and create more job opportunities for local residents.
Opposition to the Name Change
Not everyone is in favor of the proposal. Some residents feel that the name Uasin Gishu has historical and cultural significance that should be preserved. They argue that the county was named after the Uasin Gishu plateau, which has been an important part of the area’s history for generations.
A local elder said, “Changing the name would erase a part of our history. Eldoret is just a city, but Uasin Gishu represents the whole county and our heritage.”
Political leaders have also called for more public consultations before any changes are made. They say that residents should have a say in a decision that affects official documents, maps, and government records.
Next Steps
Governor Bii’s proposal will now be discussed by county officials and the County Assembly. If approved, the change would affect official documents, road signs, maps, and all government records. It may also require approval from the national government and relevant authorities.
The governor believes that renaming the county after Eldoret will improve recognition of the area. Eldoret is a major economic hub in Kenya, known for its trade, education institutions, agriculture, and as a training ground for world-class athletes. Governor Bii said the new name could help the county gain more attention both nationally and internationally.
Photos: Jonathan Bii, Uasin Gishu News.
Source: Facebook
Public Debate Expected
The proposal has sparked debate among residents, business owners, and politicians. Discussions are expected to continue in the coming weeks as the county seeks to gather opinions from the public.
Some people hope that the name change will help boost the county’s image and make it easier to attract investment and tourists. Others insist that Uasin Gishu’s historical identity should be preserved.
Governor Bii said that public consultations will be held to ensure everyone has a chance to share their views. He emphasized that the main goal is to reduce confusion and make the county easier to identify.
Conclusion
The debate over renaming Uasin Gishu County to Eldoret highlights the balance between modern recognition and historical identity. While supporters believe the change could promote economic growth and simplify identification, opponents worry about losing the county’s historical name.
As discussions continue, the decision will ultimately reflect the views of both local residents and national authorities, shaping the county’s identity for years to come.
