Barnabas: The Town Challenging Nakuru's Dominance

Barnabas township, located about ten kilometres from Nakuru’s central business district, has rapidly developed into a key commercial and residential centre within Nakuru County.

Once a quiet stretch along the Nakuru–Nairobi highway, Barnabas now functions as a busy gateway to Nakuru for travellers arriving from Nairobi. The area operates around the clock, supported by extensive street lighting and steady traffic from long-distance truck drivers who use it as a stopover. Its growing commercial profile has led some residents to compare it to Westlands, known for its vibrant business and nightlife.

Hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and financial service providers have expanded steadily, alongside informal enterprises. Security has improved, partly due to the presence of Mwariki Police Station, encouraging further business activity and evening trade.

The township has also experienced significant growth in the property market. Previously regarded as a middle-income suburb, Barnabas is now attracting investors developing modern apartments, maisonettes and bungalows. Demand has increased as professionals and families seek housing options outside the city centre while remaining within convenient reach of essential services.

Land prices have risen sharply over the past decade. Plots that sold for about Sh100,000 now range between Sh2 million and Sh4 million, depending on location. Developers link this increase to improved infrastructure and proximity to facilities such as the depot operated by Kenya Pipeline Company in the nearby Pipeline area.

The township takes its name from an early shopkeeper known as Barnabas, or “Babu”, whose store became the centre of the settlement. He later subdivided and sold land to investors, accelerating development. Although he died in 1999, residents continue to identify the area by his name rather than its official administrative designation of Muguga sub-location.

Despite the rapid expansion, infrastructure gaps remain. Feeder roads serving neighbourhoods such as Batimore and Deliverance are in poor condition, limiting access. Traders have also called for the establishment of a formal market to support small businesses. Local transport operators say road improvements are necessary to sustain growth and improve mobility.