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Security has been tightened in Eldoret and its environs as additional police officers and GSU personnel have been deployed ahead of the devolution conference.
President William Ruto flew to Eldoret town on Sunday ahead of the start of the devolution conference that is slated to start on Tuesday, August 15-19.
The Head of State was expected to visit Kipchoge Stadium and plant trees at the Eldoret Arboretum before officially opening the conference on Monday.
VIP protection units, along with teams from anti-terror security, were deployed on all routes in the town and at major hotels where key local and international guests will be staying during the conference period.
Governor Jonathan Bii of Uasin Gishu assured that all plans were in place, and the county was fully prepared to host over 15,000 expected guests in Eldoret this week.
The event will be held at the Eldoret Sports Club.
This Biennial Devolution Conference will be the first hosted by the Council of Governors.
“We are pleased that everything is proceeding smoothly, and we are ready for the conference,” Bii stated.
He also encouraged traders in Eldoret, especially eateries and supermarkets, to operate 24 hours a day to accommodate the influx of guests.
Hotels in the town reported full bookings at almost double the usual rates, leading many other guests to seek alternative accommodations in neighboring towns such as Iten, Kitale, and Kisumu.
Uasin Gishu County Commissioner Eddisson Nyale mentioned that security teams would patrol the town around the clock to ensure guests’ safety.
Additional police officers and NYS teams have been called in to assist with traffic control and other security needs.
“We urge the people in this region to collaborate with us to ensure the success of the devolution conference this week,” Nyale emphasized.
Ruto is expected to officially open the conference on Wednesday, with former United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair among the dignitaries anticipated to attend.
The Council of Governors stated that Raila will be present on Thursday, while Gachagua will preside over the official closing ceremony on Friday. BY THE STAR