Mbakalo Ward: A Comprehensive Profile of Tongaren Constituency's Growing Region.

Mbakalo Ward stands as one of the six key administrative divisions within Tongaren Constituency, a rapidly developing area in Bungoma County, Kenya. This ward has seen notable growth in infrastructure, education development, and property value fluctuations that reflect broader regional economic patterns. Recent investments in water systems and educational facilities signal the government’s commitment to enhancing living standards in this primarily agricultural region.

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Geographic and Administrative Overview.

Tongaren Constituency, home to Mbakalo Ward, was established in 2012 when it was carved out of the larger Kimilili Constituency prior to the 2013 general elections. The constituency spans approximately 378.30 square kilometers and is one of nine constituencies in Bungoma County. Mbakalo Ward covers an area of 50.20 square kilometers with a population of approximately 32,229 residents. The constituency as a whole recorded a population of 187,478 as of 2020 and registered 84,952 voters for the 2022 general election.

Administratively, Tongaren Constituency comprises six county assembly wards:

Mbakalo Ward (our focus area).
Naitiri/Kabuyefwe Ward.
Milima Ward.
Ndalu/Tabani Ward.
Tongaren/Kiminini Ward.
Soysambu/Mitua Ward.

The constituency is currently represented by John Murumba Chikati of the FORD-Kenya party, who succeeded David Eseli Simiyu after the 2022 elections. The local governance structure is guided by a vision “to be a leading constituency in the effective and efficient management of NG-CDF funds” with a mission focused on “optimal utilization of NG-CDF funds for equitable development and poverty reduction at the grass root level”.

Land and Property Values.

Land & Plots for Sale in Bungoma-Land Prices.

Land values in Mbakalo Ward and surrounding areas in Tongaren Constituency reflect its rural agricultural character but show signs of steady appreciation. Current pricing reveals:

Mbakalo: One acre priced at approximately KSh 800,000.
Neighboring areas for comparison:
- Ndalu: One acre at KSh 1,200,000.
- Naitiri: 0.2 hectares at KSh 550,000.
- Kapchonge Ndalu: One acre at KSh 1,300,000.

These prices demonstrate significant regional variation based on proximity to main roads, availability of utilities, and development potential. Compared to areas near Nairobi, where 1/8 acre plots in Kikuyu Town range from KSh 5 million to KSh 20 million, Mbakalo offers substantially more affordable land options3.

Houses & Apartments for Sale in Bungoma-Housing Market Trends.

While specific housing data for Mbakalo is limited, broader property trends in Western Kenya and surrounding areas provide context:

Property deals in Bungoma County include:
- 3/4 acre land with 3-bedroom house at Namboko (near Naitiri Road): KSh 2.9 million.
- 3/4 acre land with 2-bedroom house at Mabanga Nachango: KSh 2.5 million.

These prices contrast dramatically with Nairobi’s housing market, where average property prices reached KSh 36.7 million by the end of 2024, with 5.2% annual growth. The relative affordability of Mbakalo and surrounding areas makes them increasingly attractive for buyers seeking alternatives to expensive urban housing.

Recent Infrastructure Development.

Water Projects.

Water infrastructure has received significant attention in Mbakalo Ward, with recent developments including:

The 2024/2025 extension of water pipeline in Makunga and rehabilitation of Karima and Kapanga water projects in Mbakalo Ward.
These projects are being implemented through an open tender by the County Government of Bungoma’s Department of Water and Natural Resources.

These water developments are crucial for improving living standards, supporting agriculture, and encouraging further settlement in the area.

Educational Infrastructure.

Education has been a primary focus of infrastructure development in Mbakalo, highlighted by:

The Mukomari Primary School transformation project:
- Completed in July 2023 after commencing in October 2022.
- Upgraded infrastructure from collapsed mud walls to modern facilities.
- Delivered six new classrooms and a sanitary block with ten latrines.
- Installed water tanks for rainwater collection, eliminating the need to fetch water from the river.
- Resulted in decreased waterborne diseases, improved academic performance, increased attendance, and higher enrollment, particularly among girls.
Existing educational facilities such as Mbakalo Deb Primary School:
- A public school with 35 classrooms and comprehensive sanitation facilities.
- Total enrollment of 1,564 students.
- Staffed by 21 male and 8 female GOK TSC teachers.
- Student-teacher ratio of 48.9.
The broader educational landscape includes 14 primary schools within Mbakalo location, demonstrating significant investment in basic education infrastructure.

National Government Constituency Development Fund Projects.

While not specifically targeted at Mbakalo, the Tongaren Constituency received substantial National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) allocations for 2022-2023, including:

Construction and completion of classrooms in schools like Ndalu Primary School, Mitua Primary School, and Naitiri Township Primary School.
Laboratory developments for secondary schools.
Construction of dormitories and other educational facilities.

These investments in neighboring wards indicate the overall development trajectory of the broader constituency, which ultimately benefits Mbakalo through improved regional infrastructure.

Socioeconomic Landscape.

Tongaren Constituency, including Mbakalo Ward, is described as a “multi-ethnic scheme area” that is “currently very large and highly populated” with “high level of poverty”1. The constituency’s agricultural character is reflected in land use patterns and property types.

The educational developments in Mbakalo have already demonstrated positive social impacts, including:

Improved hygiene conditions and reduced waterborne diseases.
Enhanced academic performance and increased school attendance.
Reduced dropout rates, particularly among sixth-grade students.
Increased enrollment of girls due to improved sanitation facilities.
Access to electricity enabling extended study hours and remedial classes.

Conclusion.

Mbakalo Ward represents a microcosm of development challenges and opportunities within Tongaren Constituency. While land remains relatively affordable compared to urban centers, its value is gradually appreciating as infrastructure improvements take hold. Recent and ongoing water projects and educational facility upgrades demonstrate meaningful investment in the community’s future.

For potential investors, homebuyers, or development planners, Mbakalo offers considerable value with its combination of affordable land prices and improving infrastructure. However, challenges remain, particularly in addressing the high poverty levels mentioned in constituency descriptions. The continued implementation of NG-CDF projects and county government initiatives will be crucial for sustaining development momentum and improving living standards across Mbakalo and the broader Tongaren Constituency.

1.What are the current house prices in Naitiri/Kabuyefwe?

2.How much does land cost per acre in Milima?

3.Are there any recent infrastructure developments in Ndalu/Tabani?

4.What are the most affordable housing options in Tongaren?

5.How does the cost of land in Mbakalo compare to other areas in Soysambu/Mitua?