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Comprehensive Analysis of Idakho Central, Ikolomani Constituency.
Idakho Central, one of the four wards in Ikolomani Constituency, represents a significant administrative and cultural region in western Kenya’s Kakamega County. This analysis explores the geographical, demographic, economic, and developmental aspects of this area, with particular attention to real estate markets and infrastructure projects that are shaping its future.
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Geographical and Administrative Context.
Idakho Central Ward is situated within Ikolomani Constituency, which is also referred to as Kakamega South Sub County. The constituency occupies a strategic position in western Kenya, bordered by Lurambi Constituency to the North, Sabatia and Emuhaya to the South, Shinyalu to the East, and Khwisero to the West.
Administratively, Ikolomani Constituency is divided into two divisions: Ikolomani South (covering Iguhu, Eregi, and Shikumu locations) and Ikolomani North (covering Shirumba, Isulu, and Shisele locations). These divisions comprise a total of twenty-two sub-locations. The constituency is further subdivided into four County wards: Idakho East, Idakho South, Idakho North, and our area of focus, Idakho Central.
The ward borders several other administrative divisions within Kakamega County, including Isukha Central, which hosts the constituency’s main commercial center. Isukha East’s vast territory encompasses diverse landscapes, from settled agricultural zones to sections of Kenya’s western highlands.
Demographics and Population Trends.
According to official records, Idakho Central Ward has an approximate population of 31,134 residents and covers an area of approximately 39.6 square kilometers. This makes it the most populous of the four wards in Ikolomani. Alternative data suggests a smaller population figure of 17,584 with 28 representatives, though this discrepancy may be due to different counting methodologies or time periods.
The entire Ikolomani Constituency has a population of approximately 104,669 residents spread across 143.6 square kilometers. The constituency has a notable population density of about 764 persons per square kilometer. In the broader context, Kakamega County’s population is projected to reach 2,072,565 by 2025, according to the County’s development projections.
Ethnic Composition and Cultural Landscape.
The primary inhabitants of Ikolomani Constituency are the Abidakho people of the Luhya tribe. However, the area has evolved into a multicultural setting with residents from various ethnic backgrounds, including Maragolis, Abanyore, Abawanga, Abamarama, Abashisa, Kamba, Luo, Kikuyu, and even some residents of Indian descent. This diversity has resulted from intermarriages, education, professional appointments, and trade activities across the region.
Economic Activities and Livelihoods.
Agricultural Practices.
Ikolomani’s economy is predominantly agrarian, with small-scale farming being the main economic activity. Over three-quarters of the constituency’s 146.2 square kilometers is arable land, making agriculture central to local livelihoods. Most residents engage in food crop cultivation, with maize being the staple crop grown for both subsistence and commercial purposes.
Some farmers also engage in cash crop farming, primarily tea and sugarcane, though this occupies a relatively small portion of the agricultural land. The agricultural potential of the area remains significant, though it faces challenges including weather variations and market access.
Mining and Trade Activities.
A distinctive economic activity in Ikolomani is gold mining, which has historical roots in the area. However, the mining is predominantly done using traditional methods and crude tools, limiting productivity and yield maximization. These mining activities involve both local artisanal miners and others from neighboring constituencies.
Small-scale trading enterprises also contribute to the local economy, including shop keeping, buying and selling of cereals and vegetables, and transportation services (particularly “matatu” transport businesses) The area has few industrial establishments, with economic activity primarily limited to small Jua Kali workshops in market centers.
Real Estate Market: House and Land Prices.
Houses for Sale in Idakho Central, Kakamega -Housing Market Analysis.
The housing market in Idakho Central appears to be developing, with limited data available on comprehensive house sales. Current market listings show rental properties rather than sales, with furnished 3-bedroom bungalows in established estates commanding different price points based on amenities and location.
For instance, a furnished 3-bedroom bungalow in Avilla Estate, Idakho Central is listed for rent at KSh 60,000 per month, while a similar 3-bedroom bungalow in Villa Park Estate is available at KSh 25,000 per month. This price differential suggests varying levels of amenities, finishing quality, and location advantages within the ward.
The Kenya Property Centre, a leading real estate platform, currently shows no market data for houses for sale specifically in Idakho Central, indicating either limited formal market activity or properties being traded through other channels.
Land in Kakamega for Sale-Land Prices and Investment Potential.
Land in Idakho Central and the broader Ikolomani area is primarily valued for its agricultural potential and, increasingly, for residential and commercial development. Current listings show a 50 by 100 plot in Kakamega Town (listed as in Idakho Central) priced at KSh 1,950,000 per annum, located approximately 100 meters from Sigalagala polytechnic.
While specific comprehensive data for land prices in Idakho Central is limited, we can contextualize values by examining regional trends. In other parts of Kenya, land prices vary significantly based on proximity to urban centers, infrastructure development, and intended use. For instance:
- Commercial plots of 1/8 acre in developed areas can range from KSh 4.5M to KSh 10M6
- Residential plots of 1/8 acre may start from as low as KSh 500K in less developed areas6
The value of land in Idakho Central is likely influenced by its proximity to Kakamega Town, the availability of amenities such as schools and healthcare facilities, and accessibility via road infrastructure.
Infrastructure Development and Future Prospects.
Water Infrastructure Projects.
One of the most significant recent infrastructure developments in Idakho Central is the proposed water project. The Kakamega County Government floated a tender for the “Proposed Construction Of Idakho Central Ward Based Water Project In Ikolomani Sub-county” with a closing date of December 3, 2023. This project aims to improve access to clean water for residents, addressing a fundamental need for sustainable development in the ward.
Road Infrastructure Development.
Transportation infrastructure has seen notable improvement with the commissioning of a 9.3-kilometer tarmac road in Ikolomani constituency. The Bushiangala-Eregi-Lusiola road, constructed at a cost of Sh300 million, has significantly enhanced connectivity within the area.
Governor Fernandes Barasa has indicated that the remaining infrastructure priority is the construction of a bridge at Bushiangala to connect residents from Idakho Central and Idakho South to Chavakali, with funds for this project planned to be allocated in the 2023 fiscal year. This bridge will further strengthen regional connectivity and economic integration.
County Development Priorities.
In the broader development context, the Kakamega County Annual Development Plan for FY 2025/26 outlines several priority areas that will benefit Idakho Central and other parts of the county. The county government plans to spend KES 15.36 billion against a projected development envelope of KES 5.95 billion on various initiatives.
These development priorities include:
- Enhancing access to quality and affordable healthcare.
- Improving water and sanitation services.
- Supporting wealth creation and infrastructure development.
- Sustaining food security initiatives.
- Providing quality education.
- Enhancing social development.
- Promoting good governance.
Conclusion.
Idakho Central Ward in Ikolomani Constituency presents a complex picture of a predominantly agricultural area undergoing gradual development and modernization. With its rich cultural heritage, growing population, and strategic location within Kakamega County, the ward holds significant potential for further development.
The ongoing and planned infrastructure projects, particularly in water supply and road connectivity, are expected to enhance quality of life and economic opportunities for residents. These improvements may also positively impact property values over time, making the area potentially attractive for real estate investment.
However, challenges remain, including the need for industrial development, modernization of agricultural practices, and improved mining techniques to maximize the area’s natural resources. The implementation of the county’s development plan will be crucial in addressing these challenges and unlocking the full potential of Idakho Central and the broader Ikolomani Constituency.
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