After years of uncertainty and stalled progress, the long-awaited construction of Koitalel Samoei University in Nandi Hills Sub County, Nandi County, has finally resumed. This milestone comes after the project site was officially handed over to a new contractor, ushering in renewed hope and optimism for the local community.
The initial phase of the project received a funding of Sh.250 million, while the newly launched second phase has been allocated a substantial Sh.900 million. The construction will now be undertaken by Oriole Home Limited, a Chinese firm led by contractor Ying Du. The handover ceremony, filled with anticipation and relief, was marked by the formal contract signing between Ying Du and Koitalel Samoei University’s Principal, Professor Winston Akala.
Prof. Akala expressed his enthusiasm for the resumption of the project and highlighted the university’s future specialization in sports science. “Nandi being the source of champions, the institution’s area of specialization will be sports science. This will go a long way in nurturing young talents from the region,” he remarked.
He also commended the community’s dedication to advocating for the institution, named after the legendary Nandi leader Koitalel Samoei, who was slain by colonial forces. According to Prof. Akala, the establishment of the university symbolizes the community’s respect and reverence for their historic leader.
Koitalel Samoei University Council Chairman, Professor Risley Kavu, expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far and confirmed that the main campus would be located in Nandi Hills Sub County, with the current Mosoriot Campus serving as a branch. “We have reached a point where the project is moving forward. After receiving the go-ahead, we conducted a smooth, open, and transparent procurement process,” said Prof. Kavu.
Nandi East Deputy County Commissioner Ngalia Ndaya reassured the community of the government’s commitment to supporting the project and ensuring its successful completion. He pledged that security measures would be put in place to safeguard the construction site from any potential disruptions.
With the project now back on track, the community eagerly anticipates the realization of Koitalel Samoei University — an institution poised to become a beacon of academic excellence and a hub for nurturing sporting talent in the region.
