Eldoret history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the city of Eldoret began relatively recently, in 1910. Initially, this settlement was known by the unusual name "64," as the central gathering point for local farmers was located exactly at the 64th mile from the Londiani railway station. Later, the city acquired its modern name, which comes from the Maasai word "eldore," meaning "stony river," a reference to the Sosiani River flowing here.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small settlement into a major economic centre was driven by several factors:

• The Railway: A decisive moment in development was the construction of the railway line, which reached the city in 1924, ensuring a reliable connection with the outside world and simplifying the export of produce.
• Geography and Climate: Its location on a high-altitude plateau provided the region with a mild climate and fertile soils, ideally suited for agriculture.
• Administrative Status: The establishment of a post office and a bank in the early 20th century cemented the settlement's status as an important trading hub.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The region's economic foundation was built exclusively on agriculture. Kenya is famous for its agrarian traditions, and this area quickly became known as the country's "breadbasket" thanks to large-scale wheat and maize cultivation and the development of dairy farming. The cultural environment was formed around farming communities, where hard work and a close connection to the land were valued, traits that are still reflected in the city's character today.

Major Historical Milestones

Below is a brief chronology of events that shaped the modern appearance of the city of Eldoret, from a small farming settlement to a major economic centre that Kenya takes pride in.

• 1910 — A post office was opened at the site of Farm "64," becoming the starting point for the future settlement's development.
• 1912 — The town received its official name, derived from a Maasai word meaning "stony river."
• 1924 — Construction of the railway branch was completed, connecting the region with the country's main line and the sea coast.
• 1928 — The first centralised water supply system was commissioned, ensuring comfort for the growing population.
• 1933 — Electrification of the town began, allowing for the development of local processing industries.
• 1959 — Administrative status was upgraded to a municipal council, expanding local self-governance capabilities.
• 1984 — Moi University was founded, turning the region into an important educational and scientific hub of East Africa.
• 1997 — The International Airport was opened, becoming the third most significant air port in the country.
• 2013 — The local college was upgraded to the full-fledged University of Eldoret, strengthening the city's academic reputation.
• 2024 — Eldoret was officially granted City status, cementing its position as one of the state's key urban centres.

Key Stages of the City's Transformation

The development of the city of Eldoret is a story of transformation from a small farming settlement into one of East Africa's main urban centres. Each of these events became a turning point, defining the region's modern economic and cultural appearance.

• Arrival of the Railway (1924): Connection to the Uganda railway network became a powerful economic driver. This event lifted the town out of isolation, turning it into a major logistics hub for the export of grain and timber from the fertile Uasin Gishu plateau.
• Industrialisation and Textile Boom: The opening of large processing enterprises, such as the Rivatex textile factory, in the mid-20th century laid the foundation for industrial potential. This created thousands of jobs and diversified an economy that previously depended solely on agriculture.
• Establishment of an Education Hub (1984): The founding of Moi University radically changed the city's demographics and atmosphere. Its transformation into a student centre stimulated housing construction, the development of the service sector, and an influx of intellectual capital from all over Kenya.
• Opening of the International Airport (1997): The launch of its own air harbour opened direct routes for the export of perishable goods (flowers and vegetables) to global markets. This strengthened the city's status as an independent trade player, not reliant on the capital's logistics.
• Development of a Medical Cluster: The expansion of the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) to the level of a national referral centre made the city a destination for medical tourism, serving not only the west of the country but also neighbouring states.
• Global Sports Recognition: The formation of the "City of Champions" image and the creation of training bases for elite runners attracted sports tourists and investors. The success of local athletes has become the city's main brand on the international stage.
• Granting of City Status (2024): Officially receiving City status was the culmination of urban development. This event unlocks access to new infrastructure development funds and increases the region's investment appeal for international business.

Architectural Appearance and City Development

The architecture of the city of Eldoret is a visual reflection of its rapid transformation from an agrarian outpost into a modern metropolis. Since the city was founded only in the early 20th century, there are no medieval buildings here. Instead, the urban fabric is woven from colonial heritage, functional modernism, and contemporary high-rise landmarks, symbolising the economic growth that Kenya has demonstrated in recent decades.

Eras and Styles

The city's urban development can be broadly divided into three key stages, each leaving its mark on the look of the streets:

• Colonial Period (Early 20th Century): The era of the city's founding. This time is characterised by low-rise buildings and bungalows with wide verandas and pitched roofs, adapted to the local climate. This "farmhouse" style, reminiscent of English country homes, is best preserved in the prestigious residential area of Elgon View, where old villas are immersed in lush gardens.
• Post-Colonial Modernism (1970–1990s): A period of active construction of government institutions and educational centres. Buildings from this era are distinguished by strict geometric shapes, functionality, and massive use of concrete. Striking examples include the older administrative blocks and Moi University buildings.
• Modern High-Tech and Commercial Development (21st Century): With the new status and growth in investment, the city centre began to grow upwards. Office towers with panoramic glazing, modern shopping centres (malls), and hotels have appeared, forming a new, dynamic city skyline.

Iconic Buildings and Districts

The Central Business District (CBD) has a clear layout and is filled with significant structures that serve as landmarks for travellers:

• Daima Towers: One of the tallest buildings in the city, whose glass facades have become a symbol of the region's business activity. It is a prime example of modern commercial architecture, dominating over the low-rise historical buildings.
• KVDA Plaza: For a long time, this building was the main high-rise landmark of the centre. It represents a classic example of late 20th-century administrative construction and remains an important navigational point.
• Sacred Heart Cathedral: A majestic religious structure that stands out for its monumentality and serves as the spiritual centre of the city, contrasting with the modern office buildings.

Prominent Figures of Eldoret

The city of Eldoret is known as the "City of Champions," and this title is justified not only by sporting achievements but also by the influence of locals on politics and the development of the entire country. World stars of athletics live and train here, and the political elite of Kenya was formed here.

• Kipchoge Keino — Legendary athlete, Olympic champion
  Considered the "father" of Kenyan running. His victories at the 1968 and 1972 Olympic Games brought global fame to the region. After retiring, he opened a school and training centre in the city, raising numerous future champions.
• Eliud Kipchoge — World marathon record holder
  Although born in a neighbouring district, Eliud lives and trains in the vicinity of the city (at the Kaptagat camp). He is a symbol of the region's sporting spirit and the first person in history to run a marathon distance in under two hours (in a special event).
• Daniel arap Moi — Second President of Kenya (1978–2002)
  A political figure who played a key role in the city's modernisation. It was thanks to his initiatives that the international airport, Moi University, and the main referral hospital were built here, transforming an agrarian centre into a modern hub.
• William Ruto — Fifth President of Kenya
  A native of the region who began his journey trading on local streets and reached the pinnacle of political power. His career is closely tied to the city, which remains his main political base and home.
• Vivian Cheruiyot — Olympic and World Champion
  A famous runner known as the "Pocket Rocket." She is one of the most decorated athletes permanently residing in the city and actively participates in the region's social life.
• Moses Tanui — Athlete and organiser
  The first person in the world to run a half-marathon in under one hour. Today, he is known as the founder and director of the Eldoret City Marathon, which attracts thousands of tourists and athletes.
• Ezekiel Kemboi — Two-time Olympic champion
  One of the most charismatic athletes in the 3000m steeplechase. He lives in the city and is known for his contribution to popularising athletics among the youth.