Eldoret is on the brink of a green transformation after the County Government of Uasin Gishu signed a cooperation agreement with Czech firm SEKO Aerospace, paving the way for solar-powered street lighting and smart-city technology across the city.

The agreement, sealed Thursday, in Eldoret City, marks a major step in the Eldoret Green Lighting and Smart City Project.

The initiative has already secured the necessary approvals under the Public Private Partnerships Act, 2021, and is now in the final stages of negotiations, ahead of the Project Agreement and financial close.

County Secretary, Philip Meli, who led the Uasin Gishu delegation, welcomed the partnership as a game-changer for the city.

“This cooperation agreement brings us closer to a cleaner, safer and smarter Eldoret,” Meli said.

“Solar-powered lighting and modern technology will improve the quality of life for our residents, traders and visitors while positioning our city as a leader in sustainable urban development,” he added.

The project will be rolled out in phases. It includes the development of a solar power generation plant and a network of solar-powered street lights throughout Eldoret City.

Smart-city features such as intelligent traffic management systems, LED display screens, electric vehicle charging stations, public Wi-Fi hotspots and an interconnected CCTV surveillance network will also form part of the package.

Czech Republic ambassador to Kenya, Nicol Adamcová, expressed strong support for the collaboration.

“Kenya and the Czech Republic share a commitment to innovation and sustainable growth,” she said.

“We are proud that a Czech company is partnering with Uasin Gishu to deliver clean energy solutions that will benefit the people of Eldoret for years to come,” she remarked.

SEKO Aerospace Chief Executive Officer, Vlastimil Sedláček, echoed the optimism.

“This project combines renewable energy with smart technology to create a modern urban environment,” Sedláček said.

“We look forward to working closely with the County Government to deliver tangible results that enhance safety, efficiency and connectivity.”

Once complete, the initiative is expected to boost public safety, cut energy costs, promote clean energy and help establish Eldoret as a technologically advanced and environmentally responsible city.

County officials say the partnership underscores Uasin Gishu’s determination to pursue innovative, sustainable infrastructure that supports growth while improving everyday life for its people.

The County Government team also included County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, Energy and Irrigation Anthony Sitienei, County Attorney Sylvester Metto and Director of Energy Dr Silas Leting.

The Czech side was represented by officials from SEKO Energy and Rayvion SEKO alongside the ambassador and the SEKO Aerospace CEO.

 by Maurice Aluda