Transport Cabinet Secretary David Chirchir has said the government is fully prepared for the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension that will link Naivasha to Kisumu and eventually to Malaba.
Speaking during an inspection tour in Kisumu ahead of the event, Chirchir said the project marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s infrastructure development and regional connectivity.
He noted that President William Ruto is expected to preside over the ceremony, which will launch the construction of the 369-kilometre railway line extending from Naivasha through Kisumu to Malaba.
The President will be accompanied by his Ugandan counterpart, Yoweri Museveni.
“Our President, William Ruto, will be here to conduct the groundbreaking for the Standard Gauge Railway extension from Naivasha to Kisumu and eventually to Malaba,” Chirchir said.
The CS described the railway as a major project that will transform transport along the regional corridor, which is currently dominated by road transport.
“This is a very significant construction which will open up the regional transport corridor that is currently serviced predominantly by trucks,” he said.
According to Chirchir, the new railway line will not only improve the movement of goods but will also provide passenger transport services, making it easier for people to travel and access markets.
“It will facilitate the transportation of goods to market and also improve passenger movement, enhancing connectivity between people and regions,” he added.
Chirchir said the government is conducting final checks to ensure everything is in place ahead of the historic event.
“We are basically checking the preparedness for this particular day. We expect to host more than 20,000 people, so we are not taking anything to chance. We must prepare well,” he said.
He added that the ceremony will be of regional significance, noting that two heads of state are expected to attend. President Yoweri Museveni.
“It is a historic event given that railways are not built every day. We want to confirm that all aspects of the event are properly arranged, especially considering we will be hosting two heads of state,” he said.
The SGR extension is expected to strengthen trade and transport links between Kenya and neighbouring countries once it reaches the border town of Malaba.
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