Mariashoni Ward: A Comprehensive Analysis of Molo Constituency's Evolving Landscape.

Nestled within the highlands of Nakuru County, Mariashoni Ward represents one of the four administrative divisions of Molo Constituency, offering a unique blend of rural charm and developing infrastructure. This analysis explores the geographical, demographic, economic, and developmental aspects of this region, with particular focus on real estate trends and infrastructure initiatives.

Locations > Nakuru > Molo > Mariashoni

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Geographical and Administrative Context.

Mariashoni is one of the four wards that comprise Molo Constituency, alongside Molo, Turi, and Elburgon wards. The constituency is strategically positioned along the Mau Forest which runs on the Mau Escarpment, making it one of the coldest places in Kenya. This geographical positioning contributes significantly to the area’s agricultural potential, particularly for crops that thrive in cooler climates. The headquarters of the constituency is Molo town, which according to the 2009 census had a population of 107,806.

Administratively, Mariashoni had 1,839 registered voters as of September 2005, reflecting its relatively small but significant electoral footprint within Nakuru County. The ward is part of the broader Molo Constituency which was established for the 1988 elections, renamed from the former Nakuru West Constituency. Currently, the constituency is represented by Francis Kuria Kimani of the UDA party, who has been serving since 2017.

Demographic Profile.

According to the 1999 census data, Mariashoni location had a population of 5,563 residents. While more recent comprehensive census data specific to Mariashoni is not readily available in the search results, the area’s population has likely grown in line with broader demographic trends in Nakuru County. The population distribution reflects a predominantly rural settlement pattern, with residents engaged primarily in agricultural activities.

Real Estate Market Analysis.

Houses & Apartments for Sale and Rent in Gilgil -Housing Prices.

The housing market in Mariashoni presents interesting investment opportunities, though listings are relatively limited compared to more urbanized areas. Currently, a notable property available in the area is a furnished 4-bedroom house in Mount Kenya View, Mariashoni, priced at KSh 240,000 per month. This property is described as “superbly furnished” and situated on a half-acre plot, indicating the presence of high-end residential options within the ward.

This pricing reflects the premium nature of fully furnished accommodations in the area, particularly those that offer substantial land and modern amenities. By comparison, in nearby areas of Nakuru, similar 4-bedroom furnished bungalows are available at significantly lower rates (approximately KSh 50,000 per month), highlighting Mariashoni’s positioning as a location with select premium residential offerings.

Prime Land for Sale in Gilgil, Nakuru County-Land Prices.

Land values in Mariashoni and the broader Molo area have been influenced by several factors, including agricultural potential, proximity to infrastructure, and recent legal developments regarding land ownership. While specific land prices for Mariashoni itself are limited in the search results, the surrounding areas provide valuable reference points:

In Molo, approximately 10km from Molo Town, agricultural land is priced at KSh 1,500,000 per acre, specifically noted for its loam soil suited for farming
Within Molo Town itself, 1/4-acre plots (two adjacent plots) are listed at KSh 6,800,000, reflecting the premium commanded by urban locations.
In the Keringet Area of Molo, land is available at KSh 8,160,000, with the specific advantage of being just a 15-minute walk from Kamwaura Market and Shopping Centre.

The average price of land in Nakuru County ranges from KSh 1,800,000 to KSh 20,000,000, with an overall average of KSh 20,000,000. This wide range reflects variations in location, accessibility, land use potential, and infrastructure development.

A significant development affecting land values and ownership in the region is the recent High Court decision to lift a 25-year caveat on land within the fringes of Mau Forest. This ruling is set to benefit more than 45,000 residents, including those in Mariashoni Ward, who will now be eligible to receive title deeds. This legal development is likely to stimulate property development and increase land values as residents gain the legal security to develop their parcels after years of stagnation.

Infrastructure Development Initiatives.

Current Projects.

Mariashoni Ward is currently experiencing substantial infrastructure development through various county and national government initiatives:

Public Sanitation Facilities: The Nakuru County Government has recently floated a tender for the “Proposed Construction of Mariashoni Public Toilet in Mariashoni Ward, Molo Sub-County” with a deadline of April 2, 2025. This project aims to improve public health and sanitation infrastructure in the ward.
Educational Infrastructure: Another active tender focuses on “Proposed Equipping of Kimonia ECDE and Toilet Construction in Mariashoni Ward, Molo Sub County” with a deadline of April 3, 2025. This initiative demonstrates investment in early childhood education infrastructure.
Land Adjudication Process: Following the High Court’s lifting of the land caveat, the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning is working closely with the Nakuru County administration to complete land adjudication in Molo Sub-County, including Mariashoni Ward. The PS Nixon Korir has reported that committees have been formed to oversee the implementation of the Court’s directives regarding land issues.

Broader County Infrastructure Initiatives.

Mariashoni benefits from broader infrastructure development programs implemented across Nakuru County:

Recent Achievements (2021/22-2023/24):

Road improvements: 1642.09 km of roads graded and 1014.86 km graveled under contracted works.
Under the “Imarisha Barabara Programme,” 1675.84 km of roads graded and 224.33 km graveled.
Construction of 47 motor-able footbridges.
Maintenance of 145.77 km of existing drainage network and construction of 32.13 km of new drainage.
Construction of 102 boda-boda (motorcycle) sheds across various sub-counties.
Installation of 1243 floodlights and maintenance of 70% of existing floodlights.

Planned Developments (2025/26-2027/28):

The County Government has ambitious infrastructure plans that will benefit Mariashoni and surrounding areas:

Tarmacking of 21 km of new road networks, grading of 1300 km, and graveling of 940 km of roads.
Construction of 21 footbridges, 55 km of new drainage network, and maintenance of 42 km of existing drainage.
Rehabilitation of 7 bus parks, construction of 6 new bus parks, and 60 boda-boda sheds
Purchase of 7 vehicles and 7 graders to enhance construction capacity.
Increase the proportion of solar streetlights installed by 25%.

Conclusion

Mariashoni Ward in Molo Constituency presents a dynamic area undergoing significant transformation through infrastructure development and legal reforms related to land ownership. The housing market, while limited in listings, indicates potential for premium residential properties, while land prices are influenced by the area’s agricultural potential and recent legal developments concerning title deeds.

The ongoing and planned infrastructure projects undertaken by the Nakuru County Government demonstrate a commitment to improving transportation networks, public facilities, and educational infrastructure in the region. These developments, coupled with the resolution of long-standing land ownership issues, are likely to stimulate economic growth, increase property values, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents of Mariashoni Ward in the coming years.

Mariashoni