President William Ruto has said the planned extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Narok to Kisumu and onward to Malaba will significantly transform the economic prospects of Kisumu City and the wider western Kenya region.
Speaking on Friday during an Eid-ul-Fitr luncheon for the Muslim community at State Lodge, Kisumu, the President noted that the new railway line will enhance trade connectivity both locally and regionally, driving accelerated growth and development.
“Just as the old railway built in the 1890s led to the founding of Kisumu, the SGR will define the city’s future fortunes,” President Ruto said. “As we develop the Railway City in Nairobi, we shall also do the same here in Kisumu.”
Regional Integration and Trade Boost
The President announced that he will join Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on Saturday to officially launch the extension of the Kisumu–Malaba section of the SGR, a key link in strengthening regional trade corridors.
The project follows the recent launch of the Naivasha–Kisumu SGR section in Narok, marking renewed momentum in completing the long-delayed railway line.
According to President Ruto, the railway will traverse nine counties Narok, Bomet, Nyamira, Kericho, Kisumu, Siaya, Vihiga, Kakamega, and Busia unlocking economic opportunities and stimulating business activity across the region.
Major Development Projects in Kisumu
Beyond the railway, the government has committed substantial investments in Kisumu County, totaling Ksh.45 billion across key sectors. These include:
- Ksh.33 billion for the construction of 15,000 affordable housing units
- Development of modern markets and student hostels
- Construction of a new stadium at a cost of Ksh.950 million to support sports development
The President also commended Kisumu County for its strong uptake of the Social Health Authority (SHA) program and confirmed plans to upgrade the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) to a Level 6 facility.
“I want to commit to you that we will truly make it a Level VI hospital,” he stated.
Agriculture and Economic Reforms
On agriculture, President Ruto highlighted ongoing reforms in the sugar sector, noting improvements in farmer payments and factory operations. He expressed optimism that Kenya could become a net exporter of sugar within the next two to three years.
Leaders Back Infrastructure Agenda
Among leaders present were ODM party leader Dr. Oburu Oginga, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed.
Dr. Oginga praised the recently established National Infrastructure Fund, describing it as a transformative tool for addressing regional development disparities.
“Through this fund, we shall soon reach Singapore, and then Canaan,” he said.
