Molo Constituency: A Comprehensive Profile of Geography, Economy, and Development.

Molo Constituency, situated in Nakuru County, Kenya, represents a vital agricultural hub with evolving infrastructure and real estate dynamics. This analysis examines the constituency’s geographic characteristics, housing and land market trends, and current development initiatives transforming this highland region.

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Geographic and Demographic Profile.

Molo is a highland town situated along the Mau Forest on the Mau Escarpment, standing at an impressive elevation of 2,506 meters above sea level. The constituency spans approximately 1,198.20 square kilometers with a population density of 196.4 persons per square kilometer. According to the 2019 census, Molo has a population of 156,732 residents, a significant increase from the 124,438 recorded in 2009.

The population composition reveals a near gender balance with 78,129 males, 78,598 females, and 5 intersex individuals. Age distribution shows a youthful population structure with 61,970 residents (39.5%) under 14 years, 88,539 residents (56.5%) between 15-64 years, and 6,217 residents (4%) above 65 years. This demographic profile suggests a strong workforce potential but also indicates the need for youth-focused development initiatives.

Administratively, Molo town hosts a town council and serves as the constituency headquarters. The constituency consists of several wards, with differing accounts regarding their exact number and names. Some sources indicate Molo has four wards (Molo, Turi, Elburgon, and Marioshoni), while others mention seven wards, with five (Kiambiriria, Molo, Sachangwan, Turi North, and Turi South) in Molo Constituency and two (Koige and Sirikwa) belonging to Kuresoi Constituency.

Economic Activities and Infrastructure.

The economy of Molo Constituency is predominantly agricultural, with pyrethrum production being a standout activity, making it one of the leading pyrethrum-producing areas in Kenya. The region’s cold climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for this cash crop, which requires minimal resources to maintain. Additionally, Molo ranks as Kenya’s second-largest potato producer according to the Kenyan National Potato Policy.

Saw-milling, particularly concentrated around Elburgon, forms another significant economic pillar for the constituency. However, concerns about deforestation have led to government restrictions on forest activities, with the Kenyan government declaring forests protected from human activity since 2002.

Transportation infrastructure includes a branch of Kenya Railways (formerly the Uganda Railway), and the Molo Bus Park serves as a central transportation hub for vehicles traveling to Nakuru, Nairobi, and neighboring regions. Educational institutions include Molo KMTC in Molo town, Eburgon TTI in Elburgon, St. Andrews School in Turi (approximately 10 kilometers east of Molo), and Baraka Farmers Training College located just outside Molo.

Real Estate Market Trends.

2 Bedrooms Houses & Apartments for Sale in Molo-Housing Prices and Trends.

While specific housing price data for Molo itself is limited, the broader Nakuru County market data provides context. Property prices in Nakuru, the county headquarters, are significantly lower than in Nairobi. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in Nakuru’s city center rents for approximately KSh 30,000 compared to KSh 54,644 in Nairobi – a difference of 45.1%. Similarly, three-bedroom apartments in Nakuru’s city center rent for about KSh 50,000, which is 64.4% lower than Nairobi’s average of KSh 140,358.

The average monthly net salary in Molo is reported to be KSh 50,000, which is nearly equivalent to Nakuru’s average of KSh 50,000 (only 2.3% lower than Nairobi’s average). Mortgage interest rates are more favorable in Nakuru at 12.50% compared to Nairobi’s 14.89%, potentially making home ownership more accessible.

The broader Kenyan housing market has experienced declining prices recently, with a 1.1% decrease in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the previous quarter and a 14.28% year-on-year fall. This downward trend could make housing more affordable for potential homeowners but presents challenges for developers.

Property for Sale in Gilgill-Land Prices

Land prices in Molo vary significantly based on location, size, and intended use:

In Molo town, a 1/4 plot (two plots) was listed for KSh 6,800,000 as a “quick sale” price.
Land in Molo Mona, approximately 10km from Molo Town, was priced at KSh 1,500,000 per acre.
In the Keringet area of Molo, Kamwaura Land was listed at KSh 8,160,000.
Fertile agricultural land in Turi suitable for farming was available at KSh 1,500,000 per acre.

These prices reflect significant variations based on proximity to town centers, road access, and development potential. Generally, land closer to urban centers or with commercial potential commands higher prices compared to agricultural land in rural areas.

Recent Infrastructure Development.

Molo Constituency is experiencing substantial infrastructure development across multiple sectors:

Housing Development.

The Elburgon Affordable Housing Project represents a significant housing initiative in Molo Constituency. Located adjacent to St. Clare Girls Secondary School, this project occupies approximately 4.45 acres and will deliver 220 housing units comprising 60 studio units, 20 one-bedroom units, 120 two-bedroom units, and 20 three-bedroom units. With an investment of KSh 504 million, this project was 60% complete as of August 2024 and was scheduled for completion in November 2024.

The development includes recreational areas for children, green spaces, schools, and healthcare facilities. Beyond providing housing, the project has created employment for over 1,000 residents including mechanical engineers, plumbers, masons, steel fixers, carpenters, and welders, contributing to knowledge and skills transfer in the community.

Healthcare Infrastructure.

A KSh 147 million ultra-modern hospital is under construction in Molo Sub-County. As of November 2024, the facility was 90% complete and expected to be operational within three months. This standalone complex will be equipped with a modern maternity and neonatal wing, pharmacy, x-ray machines, modern laboratories, an outpatient complex, accident and emergency unit, imaging center, and operating theaters. The facility is part of Nakuru County Government’s KSh 1.5 billion upgrade program for healthcare facilities across its 11 sub-counties.

Water and Sanitation.

The Construction of Molo Town Sewerage System Rehabilitation and Extension Project was tendered in September 2024 by Nakuru Rural Water and Sanitation Company Ltd (NARUWASCO). This project aims to improve sanitation infrastructure in Molo town, addressing a critical aspect of public health and environmental management.

Municipal Development.

The Molo Municipality has outlined comprehensive development plans for 2024/25-2026/27, focusing on four key areas:

Planning and Infrastructure Development: Plans include marking and cabro-paving parking slots and establishing new markets.
Environmental Management and Sanitation: Installation of street lights and litter bins to improve public safety and cleanliness.
Trade and Tourism: Construction of jua kali sheds to support local artisans and small-scale businesses.
Social Services: Rehabilitation of social halls and establishment of green parks to enhance community recreation facilities.

These projects have an estimated total resource requirement of KSh 104,720,000 for 2024/25, KSh 115,192,000 for 2025/26, and KSh 126,711,200 for 2026/27.

Conclusion

Molo Constituency presents a study in contrasts—a highland agricultural powerhouse with significant economic potential yet facing development challenges. The recent infrastructure initiatives, particularly in housing, healthcare, and municipal services, signal a transformative period for this constituency. While housing and land prices remain lower than in major urban centers like Nairobi, creating opportunities for affordable homeownership, the constituency requires continued investment to fully leverage its agricultural potential and address infrastructure needs.

The ongoing development projects, if successfully implemented, will likely enhance the quality of life for residents while potentially increasing property values in the medium to long term. For investors and potential residents, Molo offers a combination of affordable real estate options and improving public services, making it a noteworthy area to watch in Kenya’s development landscape.

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