Homa Bay Town: Closer Look at Kenya's Street Naming Rules

Homa Bay County Government has given new names to streets in Homa Bay town and erected street signs for the first time in the town’s history.

The names, mostly of prominent politicians, have elicited mixed reactions among residents and Kenyans.

Some of the new names include Gladys Wanga Street - named after the governor, Ong’ondo Were Street - named after slain Kasipul MP,  Orwa Ojode Street - named after the late former Ndiwa MP, and Governor Cyprian Awiti Street - named after the county’s pioneer governor.

While some of the residents have supported the initiative, others believe the names were misplaced and should have been focused on other leaders, other than politicians.

Streets in Homa Bay after Gladys Wanga in Homa Bay County.

Street Naming

But first, how are streets named in Kenya? 

Legally, the power and authority to name streets is primarily vested in the county governments. 

The County Government Act, 2012, outlines the functions and powers of county governments, including the management of public infrastructure, including streets and roads.

County Assemblies are responsible for passing legislation that provides rules and procedures that govern urban planning and development.

The process begins with a proposal submission for a street name. This can be initiated by various people, including a county official, a community member, or a local group. 

The proposal is then reviewed by a designated street-naming committee within the county government. This committee evaluates the name based on criteria such as historical significance, cultural sensitivity, and whether the name is unique and easy to use.

A critical part of the process is public participation. The proposed name is often publicized in local media or on the county’s website to allow the public to give feedback. 

This step is a constitutional requirement and ensures the name is acceptable to the community. After considering public input, the committee presents its final recommendation to the County Assembly for a vote. 

Once approved by the assembly, the new name is officially adopted and published in the Kenya Gazette, a legal notice that formalizes the change.  

The county then proceeds with installing the new street signs.

An image of a street named after the late Member of Parliament for Kasipul Constituency, Charles Ong'ondo Were, in Homa Bay County.

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Wycliffe Omondi