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Exploring Malakisi/South Kulisiru in Sirisia Constituency: Area Facts, Land Prices, and Infrastructure Development.
Malakisi/South Kulisiru, the second largest ward in Sirisia Constituency of Bungoma County, represents a region of significant agricultural potential facing infrastructure challenges while experiencing gradual development. This area is characterized by semi-arid conditions despite its proximity to Mt. Elgon highlands, with land prices averaging 550,000-650,000 KES per acre. Recent infrastructure investments, particularly the completed Malaba-Bungoma water project that features an intake point along the Malakisi River, mark a turning point for residents who have long struggled with water scarcity. This comprehensive exploration examines the geographical, demographic, economic, and developmental aspects of this western Kenya region.
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Geographical and Demographic Profile.
Malakisi/South Kulisiru is situated in Sirisia Constituency, Bungoma County, in the western region of Kenya. The ward covers approximately 80.40 square kilometers, making it the second largest ward in the constituency after Lwandanyi Ward (85.60 square kilometers)7. Sirisia Constituency itself spans a total area of 213.20 square kilometers and is strategically positioned on the western side of Bungoma County, sharing borders with Mt. Elgon, Kabuchai, Busia County through Malakisi, and Uganda through the Lwakhakha border point.
The town of Malakisi itself covers a relatively small area of 0.695 square kilometers but houses a population of 6,012 residents according to available data. The demographic composition reveals a nearly balanced gender distribution with females comprising 51.2% (3,081) and males 48.8% (2,931) of the population. The population density is remarkably high at 8,649 people per square kilometer, which indicates concentrated settlement patterns within the town limits.
The area demonstrates significant population growth trends, with data showing a 196.6% increase from 1975 to 2015 and a 36.4% growth just between 2000 and 2015. This growth rate closely mirrors the broader pattern in Bungoma County, which experienced a 37.7% population increase from 2000 to 201514. Notably, the population is predominantly young, with a median age of just 15.7 years (15.1 years for males and 16.2 years for females).
Climate and Agricultural Potential.
Despite being described as semi-arid due to persistent water challenges, the region possesses considerable agricultural potential. The proximity to Mt. Elgon highlands has endowed the area with rich volcanic loam soils suitable for crop farming. The climate pattern features short rains from August through October and long rains in April, creating conditions favorable for agricultural activities. Beyond conventional agriculture, subsistence horticulture is practiced in various pockets across the constituency, further highlighting the area’s agricultural versatility.
Flats, Houses & Land in Malakisi/South Kulisiru, Bungoma -Land Prices and Property Market.
The land market in Malakisi/South Kulisiru and the broader Sirisia Constituency shows consistent pricing patterns with variations based on specific locations and plot sizes. Available data indicates that land prices in the region are relatively affordable compared to more urban areas of Kenya.
Land & Plots for Sale in Bungoma -Current Land Pricing.
In Kulisiru/Makhonge area, land is priced at approximately 650,000 KES per acre for 2-acre plots. Specifically in Malakisi, land prices are slightly lower at around 550,000 KES per acre for 2-acre plots. Neighboring Lwandanyi offers land at 500,000-650,000 KES per acre depending on the plot size, with larger 5-acre plots available at 650,000 KES per acre.
Smaller plots in the constituency show varying prices: Lwakhakha offers 0.05 hectare plots at 500,000 KES, while similar-sized plots at Tulienge Junction are priced at 580,000 KES. In Namwela, 0.1 hectare plots are available for 370,000 KES, representing some of the more affordable options in the area.
The Butonge area within Sirisia Constituency has been highlighted as a prime location for investment, with 2.5 acres of fertile land available at 550,000 KES per acre. Marketing materials describe this area as offering a “breathtaking natural environment” with abundant resources including water, fertile soil, and a thriving community.
Property Ownership and Legal Considerations.
Land ownership in the region follows Kenya’s formal registration system. A legal case referenced in the search results (Environment and Land Case Civil Suit 14 of 2012) demonstrates that land in South Malakisi/South Kulisiru undergoes formal subdivision and registration processes. This particular case concerned a land parcel designated as South Malakisi/South Kulisiru/681, which was formerly part of South Malakisi/South Kulisiru/452. This indicates the existence of a structured land administration system despite the area’s rural character.
Furnished Detached Bungalows for Sale in Malakisi/South Kulisiru -Housing Market and Accommodation.
The housing market in Malakisi/South Kulisiru remains relatively underdeveloped compared to urban centers, with limited documentation of formal housing prices. However, some insights can be gleaned from available information.
Bungoma Property for Rent-Available Accommodation Types.
Malakisi/South Kulisiru provides a range of accommodation options suitable for various travel needs, including hotels, serviced apartments, and other lodging types. One specific establishment mentioned is Kibar Mos Hotel and Lodges, though detailed information about pricing and facilities is limited. Additional lodging options are available in adjacent areas such as Namwela and Lwandanyi.
While specific residential housing prices for Malakisi aren’t directly mentioned in the search results, there is reference to a three-bedroom residential house on a 2.4 hectare (5.9 acre) property in North Malakisi area, accessible via the Sirisia-Lwandanyi murram road. This suggests that standalone family homes on substantial plots are part of the local housing typology.
Regional Housing Context.
For broader context, in neighboring areas of Bungoma County, residential houses are listed with varying prices. For instance, a three-bedroom house in Chemche on a half-acre plot is advertised at 3.2 million KES. Three-bedroom houses for rent with their own compound near Bombo Tano in Bungoma are available at approximately 25,000 KES per month. While these are not specific to Malakisi/South Kulisiru, they provide perspective on the regional housing market.
Infrastructure Development.
Infrastructure development in Malakisi/South Kulisiru and the broader Sirisia Constituency has historically been challenging, though recent projects signal potential improvement.
Road Network.
The road network in Sirisia Constituency has been described as poor, with reports indicating that not a single major road was tarmacked in the entire constituency as of the time of reporting. The main road, Chwele-Sirisia-Lwakhaka, was characterized as being in a “pathetic state,” while other major roads such as Mayanja-Bisunu-Sirisia and Sirisia-Malakisi were also highlighted as problematic.
However, more recent information suggests progress in road infrastructure development within Bungoma County. The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has undertaken significant upgrades, including 21 kilometers of urban road network at a cost of 1.8 billion KES. While these improvements primarily focus on Bungoma town, the county’s development plans mention upgrading key roads including the Chwele-Lwakhakha road, which would benefit Sirisia Constituency and potentially Malakisi/South Kulisiru.
Water Infrastructure.
A major recent infrastructure achievement is the Malaba-Bungoma water project, which directly impacts the region. This project, co-funded by the Kenyan government and the African Development Bank at a cost of 690 million KES, commenced in 2020 and was completed in January 2024. It is designed to serve over 180,000 residents across various constituencies including Bungoma West.
Significantly for Malakisi/South Kulisiru, the project includes a water intake point at Ndakaru along the Malakisi River, complete with a conventional water treatment plant. Additionally, the government has planned a “Last Mile Connectivity (Water Supply)” project, estimated to cost an additional 300 million KES, which will further enhance water accessibility in the region.
Bungoma County Governor Kenneth Lusaka has noted that this water project “promises to not only alleviate immediate water woes but also unlock broader socio-economic development potential for the region”. This represents a significant improvement for an area previously described as semi-arid due to water challenges.
Future Development Plans.
The broader Bungoma County development plans indicate a commitment to infrastructure improvement. The County Integrated Development Plan emphasizes “transformation of the county economy pegged on modernisation of infrastructure”. Specific priorities include “wider access to quality social services” and “promoting science, technology, innovation to enhance competitiveness”.
The Annual Development Plan for FY 2024/25 mentions various infrastructure projects, including the previously mentioned upgrading of key roads. There is also mention of ongoing works for “the Dualing of 6.5km of Mumias-Bungoma Road from Sangálo Junction–Kanduyi” and the construction of “one large gravity water system through the support of KOICA”.
Conclusion.
Malakisi/South Kulisiru in Sirisia Constituency represents an area of contrasts and potential. Despite being characterized by a young population and rich agricultural potential, the region has historically struggled with inadequate infrastructure, particularly regarding road networks and water access. Land prices remain relatively affordable compared to urban centers, with prices ranging from 500,000 to 650,000 KES per acre, making it potentially attractive for agricultural investment.
The recent completion of the Malaba-Bungoma water project marks a significant turning point for the region, potentially addressing one of its most persistent challenges. The project’s inclusion of a water intake point along the Malakisi River directly benefits the community and could serve as a catalyst for further development. Additionally, planned road upgrades, particularly the Chwele-Lwakhakha road, could substantially improve connectivity and economic prospects.
As Bungoma County continues to implement its development plans with focus on infrastructure modernization, Malakisi/South Kulisiru stands to benefit from these broader initiatives. However, continued investment in basic infrastructure remains essential to fully leverage the region’s agricultural potential and improve living standards for its predominantly young population.
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