Governor Bii Proposes Renaming Uasin Gishu to Eldoret County

Uasin Gishu County Governor Jonathan Bii has proposed renaming the county to Eldoret County, a move that has sparked debate over regional identity and economic development priorities.

ALSO READ: In Memory of Raila: Governor Nassir Mobilizes ODM Members in Kisauni

The governor made the proposal on November 10, 2025, during the Kenya Software and AI Summit, arguing that the change would align Uasin Gishu with other major Kenyan city counties such as Nairobi and Mombasa, while enhancing international recognition.

Rationale Behind the Proposal

Governor Bii cited recent confusion during a trip to China, where foreign delegates mixed up the county and city names, as evidence of the need for clarity in branding. He argued that renaming the county would simplify marketing efforts and make it easier to attract investment to the region.

“The name Eldoret is already well-known internationally, particularly in athletics and emerging technology sectors,” the governor stated. “Aligning our county name with our capital city would eliminate confusion and strengthen our position in global markets.”

Eldoret, the county’s largest city and administrative capital, has gained international prominence as a hub for world-class athletes and is increasingly positioning itself as a technology and innovation center in the region.

Mixed Reactions

The proposal has generated divided opinions among residents and stakeholders. Supporters have welcomed the suggestion as a practical step toward boosting the county’s profile as it develops into a major athletics and technology hub. They argue that the name change would facilitate easier identification and promote economic growth.

However, critics have expressed concerns about preserving the county’s cultural heritage. The name “Uasin Gishu” has deep historical roots in the Maasai community, referring to the area’s traditional use as grazing lands. Opponents of the renaming argue that changing the name would erase an important aspect of the region’s indigenous identity and history.

Next Steps

For the proposal to be implemented, it would require approval through formal administrative and legislative channels, including public participation and ultimately a resolution by the County Assembly. The governor’s office has not yet announced a timeline for pursuing the name change.

As the debate continues, the proposal highlights the tension between modernization and cultural preservation that many Kenyan counties face as they seek to balance economic development with the protection of their historical identities.

Follow us on X