New Eldoret city manager sworn in, pledges to improve services

The new manager for Eldoret City, Elzeba Busienei, has been sworn in and has pledged to ensure residents get better services.

She becomes the first woman to hold the position, replacing Tito Koiyet, whose tenure expired a month ago.

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii graced the swearing-in at the county headquarters in Eldoret, where top county officials, elected leaders, residents, and community groups were also in attendance.

After taking the oath of office, Busienei was formally presented with the instruments of the city, marking the official transfer of executive urban authority and responsibilities.

“I am greatly honoured for the opportunity to serve residents of Eldoret and promise that I will work with everyone to transform the city,” she said.

Residents and her family members who attended broke into song and dance, celebrating her appointment.

They donned her with the traditional Sinendet flowers which are a cultural Kalenjin community ornamental grass reserved for blessings and honour.

“She brings discipline, good management and a vision rooted in service. She will be instrumental in realising our goal of making Eldoret the cleanest, most organised and liveable city in Africa," the governor said.

Bii also hailed her appointment as a breakthrough moment for women in leadership.

“This is a proud day. It’s a win for women, for our county and for a new era of transformative leadership. We will support her fully,” he said.

Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea echoed the governor’s remarks, noting that the county leadership is ready to back Busienei’s vision and work to make Eldoret a better city.

“She is a servant leader with the grit and clarity this office requires,” Kapkea said, adding that her appointment sets the tone for performance, professionalism and inclusion.

In her first official address as city manager, Busienei expressed gratitude to the county leadership and the people of Uasin Gishu for the confidence placed in her.

“This moment is deeply personal. As a woman, as a daughter of Uasin Gishu and now as city manager, I carry this responsibility with humility and resolve,” she said.

She pledged to focus on restoring order, improving city services, strengthening institutional coordination and engaging the public in shaping the city's transformation.

Busienei said her work will involve close cooperation with residents so that she succeeds in bettering the services offered to them.

Eldoret's population is estimated to be rapidly increasing to over 700,000 residents and the city is a major business hub in the North Rift region.