State officially launches the construction of Kabarnet University

The national government has officially launched the construction of the first public university in Baringo County.

The institution, Kabarnet University College, is being established in Kabarnet town, the county headquarters, and is expected to transform both education and local economic development.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony at the main campus on April 27, 2026, Defense Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya said the Sh1 billion project will be implemented by a Chinese contractor in collaboration with the Kenya Defense Forces. She observed that the project will enhance access to quality and inclusive education not only for Baringo residents but also for students from across the country.

Tuya explained that the first phase of construction will include key academic infrastructure such as tuition blocks, a library, an auditorium, and an administration block. The phase is expected to be completed within one and a half years. Phase two will involve additional support facilities and will be rolled out in subsequent financial years.

She urged local residents to take advantage of employment and business opportunities expected to arise from the project. “Beyond its educational value, this project will serve as a catalyst for local economic growth by creating employment opportunities for our young people, supporting local enterprises and stimulating demand for goods and services within the community,” she said.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, in a speech read by Principal Secretary for Higher Education Beatrice Inyangala, said the milestone project will help shape the future of young people and enhance their sustainability in the job market. He emphasized the need for the institution to embrace innovation and global standards.

Ogamba urged the science-based university college to invest in information communication technology and the broader digital ecosystem to remain competitive internationally. He noted that aligning academic programmes with global trends would ensure graduates are equipped to work in diverse environments across the world.

Gender Cabinet Secretary Hanna Cheptumo commended the government for establishing the institution, describing it as a transformative development for a region that has long lagged behind in access to higher education facilities. She said the university will open up opportunities for local youth and contribute to social and economic empowerment.

Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi said the journey to establish a public university in the region has faced significant challenges. He recalled that five satellite campuses previously operating in Kabarnet town closed about 11 years ago due to various constraints. He thanked the administration of President William Ruto for fulfilling the long-standing aspirations of residents to have a higher learning institution within their reach.

Area Member of Parliament Joshua Kandie called for environmental conservation during the construction process. He urged contractors to preserve indigenous tree cover within the 50-acre site carved out of Kabarnet High School land, noting that the area’s natural beauty should be maintained. His remarks follow public concern over tree felling within part of the project site.

Kabarnet University College, a constituent college of Moi University, admitted its first cohort of 569 students in September 2025. The students are currently studying at the former Moi Teachers Training College in Seretunin, Baringo Central, as construction of the main campus begins.

By Benson Kelio