Governor Ottichilo confers municipality status on Kaimosi and Luanda towns
By Enock Amukhale, July 3, 2026Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo has conferred municipality status on Kaimosi and Luanda towns, a landmark move expected to accelerate urban development, attract investment, and improve service delivery across the two fast-growing centres.
Governor Ottichilo signed the Municipal Charter for Kaimosi Town on Friday, July 3, 2026, during a ceremony held at Kaimosi Teachers Training College, formally elevating the town to municipality status under the Urban Areas and Cities Act, No. 13 of 2011.
The event brought together members of the County Executive, Members of the County Assembly, the Vihiga Woman Representative, religious leaders, residents, and other stakeholders from across the county.
Speaking during the event, Governor Ottichilo said the new status establishes Kaimosi as a legally recognised urban area with its own Municipal Board and Municipal Administration, mandated to oversee planning, management, and sustainable development.
According to Governor Ottichilo the conferment of Kaimosi and Luanda Municipalities followed all legal procedures, including planning, stakeholder engagement, and public participation as stipulated under Section 9 of the Urban Areas and Cities Act.
“The area has demonstrated its readiness to assume the responsibilities and functions of a municipality,” he said.
Readiness of the towns to serve Vihiga residents
He noted that the area had demonstrated its readiness to assume the responsibilities and functions of a municipality.
The newly established Kaimosi Municipality will comprise Kaimosi, Shiru, Muhudu, Kaptech, Shaviringa, Makuchi, Mulundu, Cheptulu, Jemloli, Kisasi, Galwani, Serem, and Senende sub-locations.
Meanwhile, Luanda residents welcomed the conferment, saying it is a major economic boost. Residents who thronged Mulukhoro Grounds, led by Luanda Township MCA David Onjiri, praised Governor Ottichilo for considering Luanda for municipality status.
They said the upgrade will address long-standing challenges of poor roads, water shortages, and lack of fire services.
“Traders expect property values to rise and new investors to set up in both towns. The conferment marks a significant milestone in Vihiga County’s urban development agenda and is expected to improve infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for residents,” Onjiri said.