President William Ruto has set the ball rolling on elevating Meru town into Kenya’s fifth city, following in the footsteps of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru.
Speaking during a roadside rally at Makutano Junction on Saturday, Ruto said Meru’s rapid growth and expanding economic influence make it a strong candidate for city status.
The plan to grant Meru city status followed a formal request from Governor Isaac Mutuma, who urged the President to recognize the town’s growing role as a hub for both population and economic activity.
“Our big problem, which was the sewer system in Meru, will be completed so that the next city in Kenya becomes Meru. We want the next city to be clean once the sewer system has been rectified,” he said.
President Ruto assured residents that the government would invest heavily in infrastructure to support the town’s 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,” Ruto remarked.
To fast-track Meru’s upgrade, the President announced that the national government will release Ksh2 billion to construct 16 modern markets across the county. He said the move aims to boost local trade and uplift livelihoods in the agriculturally rich region.
Ruto also issued a directive on-site to Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa, tasking him with ensuring the county’s sewer system is fully upgraded by December 2025 – an essential step for Meru’s city accreditation.
“These projects are not just about infrastructure; they’re about creating an environment that attracts investment, supports commerce, and enhances quality of life,” the President noted.
