Milima Ward in Tongaren Constituency: A Comprehensive Profile.
Milima ward stands as one of the six administrative divisions within Tongaren Constituency, a region characterized by agricultural potential and ongoing development efforts. This report explores the geographical, demographic, economic, and infrastructural aspects of Milima ward, providing insights into property values and recent development initiatives that are shaping this rural Kenyan community.
Geographical and Administrative Context.
Tongaren Constituency came into political existence in 2012, carved from the formerly larger Kimilili Constituency prior to the 2013 general elections. The constituency is one of nine within Bungoma County and one of 290 constituencies across Kenya. Covering approximately 378.30 square kilometers, Tongaren is administratively divided into six distinct wards:
- Milima.
- Soysambu/Mitua.
- Naitiri/Kabuyefwe.
- Mbakalo.
- Tongaren/Kiminini.
- Ndalu/Tabani.
Milima ward is specifically located within the broader geographical context of Bungoma County, which lies between latitude 00 28′ and latitude 10 30′ North of the equator, and longitude 340 20′ East and 350 15′ East of the Greenwich Meridian.
Demographic Profile.
According to available data, Milima ward has an adult population of approximately 21,417 residents. This represents part of the larger Tongaren Constituency population, which contributes to Bungoma County’s overall demographic profile of 1,670,570 residents as recorded in the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census.
The constituency is described as “highly populated” and faces significant socioeconomic challenges, with “high levels of poverty” reported despite its agricultural potential. The multi-ethnic composition of the area creates both cultural diversity and resource allocation challenges for development initiatives.
Agricultural Potential and Economic Activities.
Milima ward falls within what is classified as an UM1 (Upper Midland) agro-ecological zone, making it particularly suitable for coffee cultivation, maize production, and tomato farming. This agricultural potential forms the backbone of the local economy, with Bungoma County being recognized as the fourth largest producer of maize and beans in Kenya, after Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, and Nakuru Counties.
The region benefits from favorable agricultural conditions:
- Location in a high agricultural potential area covering approximately 331.5 km².
- Fertile soil compositions ideal for various crops.
- Suitable climate conditions for year-round agricultural activities.
Agriculture serves as both the primary occupation and income source for most residents, driving the economic activities of the area while providing essential food security and raw materials for agro-based industries.
Property in Tongaren for Rent & Sale -Land and Property Prices.
The real estate market in Milima ward presents relatively affordable options compared to urban centers in Kenya. Current land prices in the area reflect its rural character while showing signs of gradual appreciation due to infrastructure improvements and agricultural potential.
One Acre Land on Sale in Tongaren – Land & Plots for Sale-Land Prices in Milima.
- One acre of land in Milima ward is currently listed at KSh 1,900,000.
- This particular property is described as being located in a “serene environment with water and power available”.
- The availability of utilities like electricity and water significantly enhances land value in this rural setting.
For comparison, other areas within the broader region show the following price ranges:
- 3 Acre plots from Kiminini to Ndalu Town are priced at approximately KSh 6,200,000 per acre.
The real estate market in Milima is serviced by various property dealers, including entities that operate under the name “Milima Gate Community,” which appears to be involved in property development or sales in the area.
Educational Infrastructure.
Tongaren Constituency has established significant educational infrastructure, though challenges persist regarding the quality and adequacy of facilities. The constituency hosts:
- 108 public primary schools.
- 53 public secondary schools.
However, the infrastructure of these institutions is described as “pitiful,” indicating substantial room for improvement and further development. This educational density demonstrates the area’s commitment to learning despite resource constraints.
Recent Infrastructure Development.
Road Development.
While specific infrastructure projects directly within Milima ward are not extensively detailed in the available data, several regional developments impact the area’s connectivity and economic potential:
- The Kimilili-Misikhu Road project has been allocated KSh 43,624,929 in the 2024/2025 fiscal year. While not directly in Milima, improved regional road networks enhance the ward’s accessibility.
County-Wide Development Initiatives.
The 2024/2025 Annual Development Plan outlines several key projects that will indirectly benefit Milima ward as part of the broader constituency and county development agenda:
- Establishment of a County level 5 hospital at BCRH.
- Development of a county industrial park at Sangálo.
- Construction of modern markets at Kamukuywa/Chwele and Kipsigon Musikoma.
- Installation of street lights throughout the county.
- Construction of ward offices countywide, which would likely include Milima.
- Completion of a high altitude training center.
- Completion of Masinde Muliro stadium.
- Various road completion projects.
These development initiatives, while not all specific to Milima ward, represent the broader infrastructural improvement efforts taking place within Bungoma County that will enhance connectivity, access to services, and economic opportunities for residents of Milima ward.
Challenges and Opportunities.
Despite its agricultural potential and ongoing development efforts, Milima ward faces several challenges:
- High poverty levels throughout Tongaren Constituency create socioeconomic barriers to development.
- Limited resources available for development relative to population needs.
- Inadequate educational infrastructure despite the presence of numerous schools.
- Rural accessibility challenges that may hinder market access for agricultural products.
However, several opportunities exist for future development:
- Agricultural intensification and diversification given the favorable agro-ecological conditions.
- Potential for agro-processing industries to add value to local agricultural products.
- Continued infrastructure development improving connectivity and market access.
- Relatively affordable land prices making it attractive for investment.
Conclusion.
Milima ward represents a microcosm of the rural Kenyan development landscape – rich in agricultural potential yet facing significant socioeconomic challenges. With land prices remaining relatively affordable at approximately KSh 1,900,000 per acre, the area presents opportunities for both residential and agricultural investment. The ongoing infrastructure development initiatives at the county level, including road improvements, market construction, and healthcare facility enhancement, are likely to positively impact property values and quality of life in Milima ward over the coming years.
As Tongaren Constituency continues to evolve since its establishment in 2012, Milima ward stands to benefit from broader county development agendas while maintaining its agricultural character and community identity. The balance between leveraging agricultural potential and addressing infrastructural gaps will determine the trajectory of development in this dynamic rural Kenyan community.
Related
1.What are the current house prices in Soysambu/Mitua?
2.How much does one acre of land cost in Tongaren?
3.Are there any recent infrastructure developments in Ndalu/Tabani?
4.What amenities are available in Naitiri/Kabuyefwe?
5.How does the cost of land in Mbakalo compare to other areas in Tongaren Constituency?