By Alex Maina
A few years ago, life in Eldoret town was very hard in the evening. When people finished work, everyone wanted to go home quickly. The roads were full of cars, matatus, and boda bodas. Traffic jams were everywhere. There were no traffic lights so drivers fought at every corner. It was confusing and dangerous.
Places like Zion Mall junction, Kiptagich Junction, Trokadero, Main stage junction, and eastleigh junction were the worst. Everyone wanted to pass first. No one gave way. Drivers squeezed into small spaces and accidents happened often. When it rained, the situation became worse. Roads got slippery. Drivers became impatient. People shouted, hooted and even argued in the middle of the road. It was scary to walk in town, especially for children and old people.
Traffic police had to stand at busy places to try and help. But even with their effort, things didn’t always work. Drivers didn’t always listen. Everyone just wanted to rush. It was noisy, slow and stressful.
In early 2025, things began to change. The Uasin Gishu County Government, led by Governor Jonathan Bii installed traffic lights at all the busy junctions in Eldoret town. The intersection of Oloo street and Uganda road, The junction of Kiptagich road and Uganda road. This was done in partnership with other local agencies and engineers. From that time, life on the road started to feel different. The town began to breathe again.
Now, when the light turns red, cars stop. When it turns green, they move. There is order. Even during the evening rush hour or when it rains, drivers wait patiently. Boda bodas, taxis, matatus and private cars follow the rules. Pedestrians can also cross safely. No more guessing. No more running across the road in fear.
John, a taxi driver, says, “Before, I would waste a lot of time in traffic. Sometimes 30 minutes in one spot. It was hard. But now, I follow the lights and it’s easy. I don’t fear accidents like before.”
Today, Eldoret looks more modern and calmer. The roads are quieter and accidents have reduced. The traffic lights have brought peace, safety and respect. Life is easier.
This shows that small but smart solutions can bring real change. Eldoret is growing and with every working traffic light, the town moves one step closer to becoming a safer, better place for all.
