Meru town is poised to become Kenya’s fifth city following an announcement by President William Ruto during a roadside rally at Makutano Junction on Saturday afternoon. The President cited Meru’s rapid growth and economic promise as strong reasons for the elevation, which would see the town join Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru as cities in Kenya.
Addressing a cheering crowd, Ruto expressed confidence in Meru’s readiness for the transformation. “The governor has said he wants Meru to become Kenya’s next city. Do you want Meru to become the next city? So, do you think I did not know that? I already had that idea in mind,” he said.
To support Meru’s bid, President Ruto announced a Sh2 billion allocation for the construction of 16 modern markets across the county. These markets aim to boost trade and enhance livelihoods in the largely agricultural region. The move underscores the government’s commitment to developing infrastructure that will sustain city-level services.
In addition, the President issued a directive to Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa to ensure the complete upgrade of Meru’s sewer system by December 2025. This critical development is expected to address one of the major hurdles facing the town’s urban transition.
“These projects are not just about infrastructure; they’re about creating an environment that attracts investment, supports commerce, and enhances quality of life,” Ruto remarked.
Meru Governor Bishop Kawira Mutuma welcomed the announcement, noting that the town’s sewer system has long hindered its progress. He affirmed that once this issue is addressed, Meru will be ready for its new status as a city.
According to the Urban Areas and Cities Act, for a town to attain city status in Kenya, it must have a minimum population of 250,000, a viable urban development plan, and the financial means to maintain city services. Meru, with its expanding population and strategic economic positioning, now appears set to follow in Nakuru’s footsteps, which became a city in 2021.
If successful, Meru’s elevation would mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s decentralization and urban development agenda.
