Living in Eldoret as an expatriate

Visa requirements

The requirements for work and residency permits in Kenya are determined by the Kenya Immigration Department. Application processes are generally straightforward, but can be time-consuming, and it's highly recommended that expats consult with a reputable legal professional to ensure compliance with all relevant procedures and requirements.

Language resources

English is the primary and most widely-spoken language in Eldoret and the surrounding region, and as such, expats should have little difficulty during their time here. Nevertheless, it's highly recommended to learn some more basic Swahili phrases, such as 'habari' (hello) and 'asante sana' (thank you), as this will go a long way towards facilitating communication and building relationships with the local population.

Housing

Rent is relatively affordable in Eldoret, particularly in comparison to other major East African cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. For those who prefer communal living arrangements, it's possible to find a room in a shared house for as little as 10,000 KES (around $75) per month. For those who prefer some more privacy, a one-bedroom, unfurnished apartment can be had for approximately 25,000 KES (around $190) per month. For larger units, such as two- or three-bedroom apartments or houses, rental rates can climb relatively rapidly, with prices ranging from around 35,000 KES (around $260) to 60,000 KES (around $450) per month, depending on a variety of factors such as location, size, and furnishings.

Groceries

Grocery prices in Eldoret are relatively inexpensive, particularly when compared to other major East African towns and cities such as Nairobi. Basic foods such as bread, rice, vegetables, and fruit can be had for less than 100 KES (around $0.80) per item, while more luxurious items such as imported meats and cheeses can be relatively pricier. By comparison, prices for these items are approximately twice as high in Nairobi, making Eldoret an attractive destination for expats and tourists looking to shop for groceries.

Transportation

Getting around Eldoret is relatively cheap, with local matatus (minibuses) providing regular and frequent transport services throughout the city. Fares are generally reasonable, with journeys within the city center costing around 100 KES (less than $1) per ride. For those looking to travel intercity, matatus plying the Nairobi-Eldoret route typically cost around 1000 to 1500 KES (around $8 to $12) per person.

Eldoret enjoys a mild tropical climate. Average temperatures range from the mid-teens to the high twenties throughout the year, with the coolest months falling between June and August. Most rainfall occurs from March to May and from October to December. The worst of the wet season is typically avoided during these months, making the town an attractive year-round destination for expats.

Eldoret's economy is broadly diversified, with notable contributors being the manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare sectors. The city is home to numerous notable institutions, including advanced engineering and manufacturing facility, Eldoret Industrial Central (IC), which serves as a base for companies such as East Africa's largest tile manufacturer, and high-tech firms such as Maehara and Faida Electronics. Agriculture, a keystone industry in Eldoret, caters to large-scale commercial farming and ranching, as well as smaller-scale subsistence farming. Major health facilities in Eldoret include MTRH (Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital) and St. Luke's Hospital. Various multinational firms, such as Coca-Cola and Unilever, also have operations in the area.

Healthcare in Eldoret is well-established, with a number of reputable private and public establishments providing various levels of care. MTRH (Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital) is the second-largest referral hospital in Kenya, and provides a broad range of specialist services. Several notable public facilities, such as St. Luke's Hospital and St. Mary's Mission Hospital, offer world-class care in a variety of medical disciplines. For those who prefer private healthcare options, there's a number of well-established institutions such as Thika Road Hospital and Lakeview Hospital.

Eldoret may not boast the same level of infrastructure as more established cities such as Nairobi, but nevertheless, the city has a reliable public transportation system that operates primarily through matatus (minibuses). As in other major East African towns and cities, the matatus are a vibrant and dynamic part of the region's character and culture, with eclectic designs and graphics adorning the exteriors. There’s also relatively good intercity public transportation with matatus going directly to and from Eldoret and major towns such as Nairobi and Nakuru.

Eldoret has its fair share of crime, but with a few caveats, it's a relatively safe city to live in. Violent crime is somewhat of an issue and, as in most East African cities, muggings and pickpocketing can be a problem. Certain areas of Eldoret, such as the central business district and flashpoints around the University, can be suspect at night. Expats are advised to exercise caution in these areas, particularly after dark. The perpetrators of such crimes are typically opportunistic and can often be deterred through vigilance and self-defense.