Eldoret

Eldoret: From Small Town to City - And What’s This About Statues?!

Eldoret just got its city crown! 🌇🎖️ But wait, are the statues of our athletes just a little too...creative? #EldoretCity #Kenya

Eldoret has officially joined the ranks of urban royalty in Kenya, receiving its city status from President William Ruto in a vibrant ceremony on August 15, 2024. The celebration took place at the Eldoret Sports Club, drawing a crowd that included local leaders and Olympic athletes who recently brought home a stunning 11 medals from the Paris Olympic Games. From the joyous installation of the public seal of the Republic of Kenya to the celebratory atmosphere, it was a day meant for the history books as Eldoret became the country's fifth city, joining the esteemed company of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru.

As the festivities unfolded, Ruto delighted citizens and dignitaries alike by awarding the city charter to Eldoret, marking a significant milestone that not only symbolizes growth but also acknowledges the town's burgeoning contributions to the country's development. The event served as a double celebration: while Eldoret officially ranked up, it was also a moment of pride as the athletes basked in the glory of their Olympic achievements. This newfound status sets the stage for even greater developments in infrastructure, investment, and tourism, transforming Eldoret into a hotspot for both business and leisure.

However, amidst the elation, Eldoret couldn’t help but find itself under the spotlight for a rather unusual reason. Following the elevation, discussions surged around the "embarrassing" statues of renowned athletes that adorn its streets. Rumor has it that public sentiments ranged from chuckles to sheer disbelief over their artistic interpretations. A particular statue depicting a female athlete sparked uproar among Kenyans, leading to social media memes and jokes that might just have given Terence Creative a run for his satirical money. Can we call it an artistic win or a monumental “whoops”?

In conclusion, while Eldoret is stepping confidently into the future as a shining beacon of urban status, it seems that its statue controversy is steering a different kind of attention. So, as Eldoret dons its city crown, the quest for better representations—both metaphorical and literal—continues. Who knows what the next viral sensation from Eldoret will be? One thing’s for sure: whether it’s city plans or peculiar statues, Eldoret is keeping Kenyans on the edge of their seats!