Thika is a step closer to becoming Kenya’s sixth city after the Senate Standing Committee on Devolution approved its application for city status, paving the way for the Kiambu municipality to become the first urban centre in the Mount Kenya region to receive the designation.
The committee’s approval follows an assessment that found Thika had fulfilled the legal and administrative requirements necessary for elevation to city status.
The evaluation examined key areas including population figures, revenue performance, infrastructure development, healthcare services, water supply, roads, and sewerage systems to determine whether the municipality had the capacity to operate as a sustainable city.
The process also involved public participation forums with residents and stakeholders, as well as a physical inspection of the municipality to assess its preparedness.
After reviewing the report submitted by the Kiambu County government, the committee concluded that Thika had met the requirements for elevation and recommended that the matter proceed to the Senate for consideration.
Residents and business leaders welcomed the move, saying city status would accelerate development, strengthen Thika’s position as an industrial and commercial hub, and create more employment and investment opportunities.
Thika Business Association chairman Alfred Wanyoike praised the Senate committee’s decision, saying the new status would make the town more attractive to both local and international investors while increasing economic activity in the county.
“The city status will make Thika more competitive as an investment destination. We expect more industries, improved infrastructure and increased economic activities that will ultimately expand the county’s revenue,” said Wanyoike.
The committee’s report will now be tabled before the Senate for debate and voting. If approved, it will be forwarded to President William Ruto for the issuance of a city charter.
Once the process is completed, Thika will become Kenya’s sixth city after Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret.
It will also become the first urban centre in the Mount Kenya region to attain city status.
– By Regan Oluoch
