Likuyani: A Comprehensive Overview of Western Kenya's Growing Constituency.
Likuyani, a vibrant constituency in western Kenya, has undergone significant development in recent years while maintaining its agricultural roots. This report examines the geographical, demographic, economic, and infrastructural aspects of Likuyani, with a particular focus on the real estate market and recent development initiatives that are transforming this region.
Geographical and Administrative Profile.
Likuyani is both a constituency and sub-county within Kakamega County, having been carved from the former Lugari Constituency prior to the 2013 general elections. The sub-county covers an approximate area of 301.9 square kilometers and is strategically positioned, bordering Trans Nzoia County to the west, Kiminini Constituency (Trans Nzoia County) to the north, Tongareni Constituency (Bungoma County) to the west, Soy and Turbo Constituencies (Uasin Gishu County) to the east, and Lugari Constituency to the south.
Administratively, Likuyani is divided into five wards: Sinoko, Nzoia, Likuyani, Sango, and Kongoni, with the Sub-County headquarters located at Kongoni Market. Each ward has distinct population characteristics:
- Likuyani Ward: 27,243 residents (97.2 sq km).
- Sango Ward: 22,853 residents (56.4 sq km).
- Kongoni Ward: 23,701 residents (43.3 sq km).
- Nzoia Ward: 30,321 residents (54.9 sq km).
- Sinoko Ward: 21,019 residents (50.1 sq km).
Current population projections estimate that Likuyani’s population will reach approximately 174,106 by 2025, with a population density of 577 people per square kilometer, reflecting steady growth in the region.
Agricultural and Economic Foundation.
Likuyani falls within the Upper Medium (UM) ecological zone of Kakamega County, an area known for its agricultural productivity. The constituency is characterized by large-scale maize and dairy farming operations, leveraging the region’s fertile soils. This agricultural foundation forms the backbone of the local economy, with most residents engaging in farming activities.
The region’s agricultural potential has attracted attention for development, with recent initiatives including the rehabilitation and stocking of Siyenga dam with tilapia fingerlings to support local fisheries. These interventions aim to diversify agricultural activities beyond traditional crops and livestock.
Real Estate Market: Land Prices.
The land market in Likuyani shows considerable variation in pricing based on location, size, and intended use. Current land prices reflect the area’s growing appeal while remaining more affordable than neighboring urban centers.
Farmland for Sale in Likuyani-Agricultural Land Prices:
- Prime farmland near Siyenga Dam: KSh 1.9 million per acre.
- Agricultural land in Lumino, Roberts area: KSh 2.6 million per acre.
- Farmland in Nasianda area: KSh 1.9 million per acre.
- Premium land along Eldoret-Kitale road near Matunda bridge: KSh 6 million per acre (showing significant price premium for highway access).
- Land in Nzoia Ward: KSh 1.8 million per acre.
- Smaller parcels of fertile arable land (0.7 acres) in Nzoia ward near Vinyenya: KSh 1.4 million outright price.
Land & Plots for Sale in Likuyani-Residential Plots:
- Standard 50×100 plots along tarmac roads at Likuyani Soy: KSh 350,000.
- Prime 50×100 plots opposite the Chief’s office: KSh 1.5 million per plot.
- Basic plots with direct owner transfer: Starting at KSh 300,000.
The significant price variation (from KSh 1.8 million to KSh 6 million per acre for agricultural land) demonstrates how proximity to major roads and urban centers dramatically impacts land values in Likuyani.
3 Bedrooms Houses & Apartments for Sale in Likuyani-Real Estate Market: Housing Prices.
The housing market in Likuyani remains relatively limited but shows signs of growth. Available property listings provide insight into current housing prices:
- Standard three-bedroom house on a 50×100 plot near the tarmac road: KSh 3.5 million.
- Premium 3-acre property with a 4-bedroom all-ensuite bungalow (featuring a sauna and built-in car park), plus additional structures including a 91 sq m store building, chicken house, and cow shed: KSh 17.5 million.
Monthly rental prices appear to be emerging in developing areas, with a 1-bedroom duplex in Runda, Likuyani available for KSh 10,000 per month. This indicates the beginning of a formal rental market in the constituency.
Recent Infrastructure Development.
Infrastructure development has accelerated in Likuyani, positioning the area for significant economic growth. Key projects include:
Roads and Transportation:
The Kakamega County government has allocated approximately KSh 38.9 million to Likuyani constituency under its “10km per ward roads project,” with each ward receiving roughly KSh 7.8 million for road improvements. Additionally, plans are underway to upgrade the Kona Mbaya-Spencon-Nzoia River Road to bitumen standards, which will further enhance connectivity in the region.
Industrial Development:
The most transformative project currently underway is the construction of the Kakamega County Aggregation and Industrial Park in Sinoko ward, initiated in August 2024 with a groundbreaking ceremony by President William Ruto. This ambitious project is expected to:
- Create more than 30,000 jobs in the region.
- Provide opportunities for value addition to local agricultural produce.
- Cost approximately KSh 500 million (jointly funded by national and county governments).
Complementing this initiative, plans are also in place to establish a textile factory in the Soy area of Likuyani ward, which will provide additional employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
Urban Development:
The county government plans to elevate Matunda Township to a Municipality status, which will bring more services closer to residents. Additionally, there’s a tender for the construction of ESP markets and supporting facilities in Likuyani (tender closing on March 17, 2025), which aims to improve commercial infrastructure.
Environmental Challenges:
Despite these positive developments, Likuyani faces environmental challenges, as evidenced by April 2025 flooding that displaced approximately 15 households along Kipsangui stream in Lupele village. This highlights the need for improved water management infrastructure in certain areas.
Conclusion.
Likuyani constituency is experiencing a period of significant transformation driven by strategic infrastructure investments, particularly in transportation networks and industrial capacity. The establishment of the Kakamega County Aggregation and Industrial Park represents a pivotal development that promises to reshape the economic landscape of the region.
The real estate market reflects this transition, with considerable variations in land prices depending on location and proximity to major infrastructure. While still primarily agricultural, the constituency is beginning to develop more diverse housing options and a formal rental market.
As planned infrastructure projects come to fruition and urban centers like Matunda gain municipality status, Likuyani is positioned to become an increasingly attractive location for both residential settlement and investment in western Kenya. The ongoing developments suggest a trajectory of continued growth and integration with Kenya’s broader economic development goals.
Related
1. What are the current house prices in Sinoko?
2. How much does land cost per acre in Nzoia?
3. Are there any recent infrastructure developments in Kongoni?
4. What types of properties are most popular in Sango?
5. How has the flooding affected property prices in Lawandeti?