Meru is on the brink of making history as it prepares to become the first city in the Mount Kenya region, a move that has sparked excitement, debate, and curiosity among residents and leaders. The announcement—widely circulated after KTN News highlighted the development—marks a major milestone for the fast-growing town, long considered a commercial anchor for the eastern slopes of Mt Kenya. If approved, the elevation would place Meru alongside Kenya’s major urban centres, signalling confidence in its expanding economy, vibrant business corridors, and strategic importance as a regional hub.
The proposal builds on years of rapid growth driven by agriculture, cross-county trade, real estate development, and its role as a key gateway to the northern frontier. Meru’s population has steadily risen, its infrastructure has expanded, and businesses—from retail chains to hospitality establishments—have taken root across the town. Supporters argue that Meru has outpaced peers in the region, with local leaders often pointing to its busy commercial zones such as Makutano, Gakoromone, and the growing suburbs around the Eastern Bypass as evidence of its readiness. The push for city status also aligns with national development efforts to decentralize economic opportunities and strengthen urban governance across counties.
The news has drawn mixed reactions from the public, reflecting optimism, skepticism, and unanswered questions. Some residents celebrated the milestone, saying Meru’s size and economic activity already match that of an emerging city. Others have questioned the actual benefits to ordinary people, especially those in rural areas who depend on crops like miraa and fear that city status might bring higher taxes or a rising cost of living. Online commentators also raised concerns about whether the plan is politically motivated or genuinely aimed at improving service delivery. As discussions continue, the focus now shifts to what city status could mean for infrastructure investment, job creation, and long-term growth in the region—whether Meru’s elevation becomes a transformative opportunity or a symbolic upgrade with limited impact will depend on how the next steps are managed.