MERU, Kenya — President William Ruto has announced that his administration will construct a State Lodge in Meru by December 2025 as part of efforts to fast-track the town’s elevation to city status.
Speaking during a Sunday service at the AIPCA Church in Meru, Ruto said the project will allow him to spend more time in the region, which he described as Kenya’s “next city after Eldoret.”
The President stated that both the national and county governments are working together to ensure Meru achieves city designation within the set timeframe.
“I have told my people to have a State Lodge ready for me by December, where I will come, and we will discuss issues of this region of Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, and the rest,” Ruto said, emphasizing that he intends to strengthen government presence and engagement in the area.
Ruto further revealed that Sh20 billion has been allocated for upgrading roads across the region to meet city infrastructure standards.
Additionally, Sh800 million has been earmarked for the renovation of Gakoromone Market, Meru’s largest trading hub, as part of the broader urban modernization plan.
“There can’t be a city here, and I fail to show up,” the President added, hinting that the planned State Lodge will serve as a key government facility in eastern Kenya.
However, environmental concerns have shadowed the announcement. The Green Belt Movement (GBM) has raised alarm over reports that the State Lodge might be constructed on gazetted forest land within the Imenti Forest.
In a letter dated September 18 to Forestry Principal Secretary Gitonga Mugambi, the GBM demanded clarification on whether the government intends to excise part of the forest to pave the way for the project.
“The Green Belt Movement writes to you seeking urgent clarification on the alleged plan to excise part of Imenti Forest in Meru County to construct a State Lodge and a golf course,” the petition read in part.
“This follows an alleged public directive by His Excellency President William Ruto and widespread concern among communities who rely on this forest for their livelihoods.”
The movement urged the ministry to provide a written response within seven days, questioning whether environmental approvals had been sought and if alternative sites had been considered.
While the precise location and cost of the Meru State Lodge remain undisclosed, the development will add to the list of regional lodges under construction, including one planned in Turkwel, West Pokot County, estimated at Sh230 million.
If completed on schedule, the Meru State Lodge will mark a new phase in the region’s development trajectory, symbolizing the government’s intent to expand executive presence beyond Nairobi and bolster regional growth, even as environmental activists watch closely.
