Urban Planner

Result of ServiceThe consultancy will deliver a comprehensive, participatory, and GIS-based Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan (LPLUDP) for Muhoroni Town, providing a legally compliant framework to guide sustainable urban growth, land use, and infrastructure development. The plan will promote environmental protection, climate resilience, and inclusive socio-economic development while strengthening land governance and service delivery. It will include a Capital Investment Plan, an implementation and monitoring framework, and a digitized GIS database to support data-driven decision-making and future updates, with the added benefit of mentoring young professionals in the built environment sector. Work LocationKisumu Expected duration8 months Duties and Responsibilities1. Introduction The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities and is the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat works with partners in over 90 countries to build inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities and communities through knowledge, policy advice, technical assistance and collaborative action and to promote urbanization for a positive transformative change. A three-tier governance structure made up of the UN-Habitat Assembly, the Executive Board and the Committee of Permanent Representatives oversees UN-Habitat’s work and provides an effective oversight mechanism for UN-Habitat to enhance its normative and operational activities. UN-Habitat’s Regional Office for Africa (ROAF) is working with close to 40 African governments to develop strategies for sustainable urban development. The portfolio of ongoing projects in Africa is diverse in terms of geographic coverage and development partners. 2. Background In Kenya, the Partnership for Implementing the New Urban Agenda (PINUA) Project has been developed, with funding from the European Union (EU), to achieve inclusive, green and resilient urbanization in selected counties. The specific objective of PINUA is to unlock and upscale adequate green housing and communities’ eco-friendly co-production in targeted counties. As part of achieving the above objective, PINUA intends to support the preparation of the Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan (LPLDP) for Muhoroni Town in Kisumu County, pursuant to the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution of Kenya, the Physical and Land Use Planning Act (2019)(Sec.45,46,47,49,50 &51) and the Urban Areas and Cities Act (UACA 2019) 2.1 Geography Muhoroni Township is situated in Muhoroni Sub-County, within Kisumu County, and is located approximately 62 kilometers East of Kisumu City, along the Kisumu–Nandi–Kericho transport corridor. Muhoroni Township serves as an important industrial and agricultural hub in the region and is bordered by sugarcane plantations and rolling hills that give the area a unique rural-urban interface. The Township hosts the Muhoroni Sugar Company, Agro-Chemical and Food Company, and Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries, which are critical to the local economy, livelihoods and employment. Muhoroni Township has a growing population, supported by key institutions including schools, health centers, administrative offices, and trading centers. Despite its economic importance and potential, the town faces challenges related to infrastructure development, land use conflicts, environmental degradation and unregulated urban growth. The physical planning of Muhoroni Township will be essential in guiding sustainable development, streamlining land use and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The Township lies on the Nyando River Basin at an elevation of around 1,500 meters above sea level. The area experiences a bimodal rainfall pattern and supports both agriculture and industrial activity. The built-up urban core of Muhoroni spans approximately 8 km², while its greater hinterland, comprising agricultural lands, peri-urban settlements, and ecologically sensitive zones, extends over an area of approximately 3,008 km². The township is surrounded by expansive sugarcane farms, rolling hills, and natural water bodies, forming a unique landscape that is both economically productive and environmentally significant. This wider area serves as a critical support base for Muhoroni’s economy, livelihoods, and ecological balance. According to the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census, Muhoroni Township has a population of approximately 45,000 people, with a predominantly youthful demographic and a high rate of urbanization. This demographic profile presents both opportunities and challenges in terms of service delivery, employment, housing, and long-term spatial planning. The land use in Muhoroni is mixed, including industrial, residential, agricultural, public utilities and riparian lands. The coexistence of rural and urban land uses creates overlapping demands and often results in informal settlements and encroachment on agricultural and environmentally sensitive areas. 2.2 Economy The Muhoroni economy is driven by agro-industry, agriculture and transport. The presence of major industrial plants, such as Muhoroni Sugar Company and Agro-Chemical and Food Company, provides employment and fuels trade. Sugarcane farming is predominant, with smallholder and commercial farmers contributing to the value chain. The town also supports livestock rearing, informal retail and light manufacturing. Markets such as Muhoroni Central, Chemelil, and Fort Ternan provide trading opportunities for agricultural produce and other goods. However, poor infrastructure, limited market access and unplanned settlements constrain growth and Local Economic Development (LED). There is an urgent need to harmonize land use, improve infrastructure, and strengthen urban governance and management. 3. Rationale This intervention is based on the numerous urbanization and human settlements challenges facing the Township. These include the following: a) Infrastructure constraints such as:- • Road Network – Inadequate and poorly maintained roads hinder movement of goods and people. • Regional linkage- poor regional linkage • Water and Sanitation – Limited access to safe water and inadequate sewer systems affect public health. • Electricity – Power outages and weak grid connections disrupt industrial and domestic activities. • ICT Infrastructure – There is limited internet penetration and poor network coverage. • Public Facilities – A lack of formal bus parks, trading sheds, and recreational spaces. b) Human Settlement Structure constraints such as:- • Urban Core – Densely built-up area around Muhoroni CBD and industrial zone. • Peri-urban Zone – Transitional areas with scattered residential plots, farms and emerging businesses. • Rural Fringe – Dominated by farming and dispersed homesteads. • Urban sprawl c) Urban Growth Drivers and related challenges such as: • Migration from rural areas to seek employment in industries. • Expansion of industrial and agricultural activities. • Speculative land acquisition and subdivision d) Social Infrastructure Development challenges such as:- • Inadequate schools, health facilities and social amenities. • Growing demand for vocational training and tertiary education. e) Environmental Protection and Sustainability Challenges such as:- • Pollution from industrial waste and agrochemicals. • Encroachment into riparian areas. • Need for solid waste management systems and clean energy solutions. f) Socio-Economic Challenges such as:- • Youth unemployment and informal sector dependency. • Untapped potential in agribusiness, tourism (especially agro-tourism) and manufacturing. g) Crosscutting issues i.e : • Climate change; Recommend green buildings. • Gender • Politics • social cohesion h) Community well-being such as:- • Inadequate health care and recreational facilities. • Vulnerability of informal settlement residents. • Social cohesion is threatened by resource competition and land conflicts. 4. Objective The Urban Planner will work under the overall coordination of the Senior Human Settlements Officer/Head of Country Programme, Kenya, and the direct supervision of the PINUA Project Manager, in close collaboration with team members. The objective of this Terms of Reference (TOR) is to guide the process of selecting a suitable consultant to prepare the Muhoroni Town Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan. The specific objectives include:- a) Guiding spatial and land use development for orderly growth of the planning area. b) Setting and delineating the planning area boundaries. c) Zoning land uses. d) Promoting socio-economic development through land use optimization. e) Aligning the LPLDP to existing sectoral and subject matter plans. f) Guiding provision of affordable housing and public utilities. g) Promoting environmental protection and sustainable resource use. h) Stimulating local investment and economic activity. i) Strengthening land governance. j) Enhancing public service delivery and community well-being. 5. Methodology The preparation of the Plan will encompass the following integrated process: - a) Desktop Study: A comprehensive review of existing data, reports, plans, maps and demographic trends to establish baseline knowledge and identify information gaps. b) Digitization of Land Records and Maps: Conversion of existing cadastral records, RIMs, and land-related data into digital formats to support data-driven planning and improve land administration. c) Long-Term Visioning: Formulation of an agreed, shared development vision and strategic objectives through consultative processes, aligning with national and county-level development frameworks. d) Community and Stakeholder Engagement: Inclusive engagement of residents, industry, institutions, and local leaders through public forums, surveys, and focus group discussions to ensure community ownership and responsiveness. e) Legal and Policy Framework Review: Evaluation of relevant statutes and policies, including the Physical and Land Use Planning Act (2019), Urban Areas and Cities Act, and related county and national guidelines, to ensure legal compliance and policy alignment. f) Situational Analysis : GIS-based assessment of the township’s current land use, infrastructure, environmental assets, housing conditions, economic activities and social services. g) Development Strategies and Proposals: Strategic interventions aimed at addressing identified challenges, promoting sustainable development, and guiding orderly urban expansion. h) Formulation of the Physical and Land Use Plan: Preparation of a comprehensive, spatially referenced plan that outlines development priorities, regulatory zones, and future growth areas. i) Zoning and Development Control Regulations: Delineation of functional land use zones including residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, recreational, agricultural and conservation areas. Give provisions for Disaster Risk Reduction. j) Capital Investment Plan: Prioritized investment roadmap detailing critical infrastructure and service delivery projects, with associated cost estimates and financing options. k) Plan Implementation Strategy: Phased and actionable strategy that assigns roles, timelines, and resources for effective execution of the plan. l) Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework: Development of key performance indicators (KPIs), reporting mechanisms, and review cycles to track progress and ensure accountability. m) Plan Communication & Visibility Strategy: Design of accessible formats and targeted dissemination tools (e.g., policy briefs, visual summaries, community presentations) to enhance public awareness, political support and institutional uptake of the plan. n) Resilience strategy for the town 6. Legal and Policy Framework The Muhoroni Local Physical and Land Use Development Plan shall be the framework that details the planning area’s socioeconomic development vision and programs. It shall build upon the various global, regional, national and county frameworks listed below. a) Global and Regional: Sustainable Development Goals (SDG); New Urban Agenda; AU Agenda 2063 b) National: Constitution of Kenya, 2010; The Physical and Land Use Planning Act, CAP 303 – 2019 (revised 2022);County Governments Act, CAP 265 – 2012 (revised 2020); Urban Areas and Cities Act, CAP 275 – 2011 (revised 2019); Environmental Management and Coordination Act, CAP 387 – 1999 (revised 2015); Land Act, CAP 280 – 2012 (revised 2022); Survey Act, CAP 299 – 1961 (revised 2010); Land Registration Act, CAP 300 – 2012; National Lands Commission Act, CAP 281 – 2012; National spatial plan; National building code, 2024; Affordable Housing Act; National Urban Development Policy; National Slum Upgrading and Prevention Policy; Sectional Properties Act; Water Act; Agriculture, Fisheries & Food Authority Act. c) County: Kisumu County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP); Intergovernmental Relations Act (IGRA) 7. Scope of Work The scope of work will include supporting and participating in the collection of spatial and non-spatial data in conjunction with the County Planning Unit. The scope will also include undertaking situational analyses including processing, analysis and interpretation of the data, developing planning scenarios (modelling), formulating plan proposal and action plans and facilitating stakeholder engagement sessions. The above Scope of Work is phased, and each phase has specific activities as follows: 7.1. Inception and Mobilization a) Project Kick-off Meeting: Engagement with the County Government of Kisumu and relevant agencies to confirm scope, expectations and roles. b) Inception Report Preparation: Outlining methodology, work plan, stakeholder engagement strategy, risk management approach and validation of the Terms of Reference. c) Site Reconnaissance: Initial field visit to understand the physical, social and economic dynamics of the township. 7.2. Desk Review and Legal Audit a) Review of Existing Documentation: Assessment of previous plans, policies, sectoral reports, census data, maps, and investment frameworks relevant to Muhoroni. b) Policy and Legal Framework Audit: Ensuring alignment with the Physical and Land Use Planning Act (2019), Vision 2030, County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), SDGs and other statutory frameworks. 7.3. Community and Stakeholder Engagement a) Stakeholder Mapping: Identification and categorization of key actors including residents; industries; farmers; youth; women’s groups; county departments; and private sector stakeholders. b) Engagement Mechanisms: Public forums and barazas; Focus group discussions (FGDs); Key informant interviews (KIIs); Surveys and participatory mapping. c) Visioning Workshop: Co-creation of a shared long-term development vision for Muhoroni Township. 7.4. Spatial and Situational Analysis a) GIS-Based Mapping: Existing land use and land cover; Infrastructure networks (roads, water, drainage, electricity); Environmental features (wetlands, riparian areas, flood-prone zones); Demographic and socio-economic distribution. Specifications of the satellite imagery required should be High Resolution of less than 1metre; 6months prior; tiif format b) Field Data Collection: Physical condition assessments; Topographical surveys; Ground-truthing of mapped data; Land tenure and cadastral data verification c) SWOT and Trend Analysis: Identification of spatial development drivers, constraints, and emerging trends. 7.5. Visioning and Strategic Framework a) Formulation of Vision and Objectives: Guided by stakeholder input, legal mandates, and spatial priorities. b) Strategic Themes Development: Including land use, infrastructure, housing, economic development, environment, public spaces, and governance. 7.6. Plan Formulation and Zoning a) Urban Structure Plan: Framework for spatial organisation of Muhoroni including primary growth areas, nodes, and corridors. b) Zoning Plan: Functional land use zones (residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, conservation, institutional). c) Special Area Plans: For ecologically sensitive areas, informal settlements, and industrial buffer zones. d) Infrastructure Development Plan: Integrated proposals for transport, water, sewerage, ICT, waste management, energy, and drainage systems. e) Affordable Housing and Settlement Strategy: Recommendations for planned settlements, housing improvement, and tenure regularization. 7.7. Investment and Implementation Planning a) Capital Investment Plan (CIP): Identification of priority projects; Cost estimates and phasing; Potential funding sources (public, private, PPPs) b) Implementation Framework: Institutional roles and responsibilities; Timelines and sequencing; Capacity-building recommendation 7.8. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Risk Management a) Monitoring and Evaluation Framework: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs); Baselines and targets; Feedback loops for adaptive planning b) Risk Management Plan: Identification of key risks (e.g., political, financial, community resistance); Mitigation strategies and contingency planning 7.9 Digitisation and GIS Integration a) Digitisation of Cadastral and RIM Data: To support spatial accuracy, land administration, and future updates. b) GIS Database Development: A central digital repository for maps, land use data, and planning layers accessible by stakeholders. 7.10. Finalization, Validation and Dissemination a) Draft Plan Review Workshops: Presenting the draft LPLDP to stakeholders for validation and feedback. b) Final Plan Preparation: Integration of feedback into the Final Plan with supporting thematic maps and implementation annexes. c) Public Presentation and Dissemination: Summary reports for public and political audiences: PowerPoint presentations for decision-makers; Policy briefs for legislative and administrative endorsement (including for use in presenting the Plan to County Assembly and to relevant Liaison Committees by CEC) 7.11 Young professionals Mentorship Initiative The Consultant will be required to integrate into the Project activities a minimum of two (2) young professionals in the built environment sector as interns during the duration of the Project. The costs associated with onboarding interns shall be borne by the Consultant and should, therefore, be factored in the Consultant’s Fees. 8. Cross-Cutting Principles a) Participatory Planning: Ensuring community voices shape the plan. b) Sustainability and Climate Resilience; Mainstreamed in land use and infrastructure design. c) Equity and Inclusivity: Addressing the needs of marginalized groups including women, youth, and the informal sector. d) Data-Driven Decision-Making: Leveraging GIS and verified field data for accurate, realistic planning. e) Inter-Sectoral Integration: Alignment with housing, transport, agriculture, health, and education planning. Qualifications/special skillsAn advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Urban Planning, Regional Planning, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in the above fields, combined with additional relevant professional experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in Urban Planning / Regional Planning, a significant part of which should be directly related to different aspects of urban planning such as city-wide planning, informal settlements upgrading, urban extension plans, urban regeneration and renewal, urban redevelopment, land management, landscape and public space design is required Experience in organizing participatory planning activities and conducting capacity development activities is required Experience in interacting, collaborating, working and effectively managing partnerships with high level government officials/institutions and development partners is required Previous experience in the UN system is an asset license by the Physical Planners Registration Board in Kenya is highly desirable LanguagesFor the position advertised, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.