By Joel Clinton
Residents of Kisumu County have welcomed the news that construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Phase 2B and 2C from Naivasha to Kisumu and onward to Malaba is expected to start soon. The project will stretch approximately 269 kilometers from Suswa/Naivasha to Kisumu. It will pass through several areas within Kisumu County, including Sondu, Ahero, and Kisumu Town, before heading toward Malaba.
Leaders from both the national and county governments recently met with key stakeholders to discuss how to implement the project and its expected effects on local communities. The discussions included representatives from Kenya Railways, the National Land Commission, Members of Parliament, Members of the County Assembly, and other government officials.
Several key issues were addressed during the meeting. These included compensation for Project Affected Persons (PAPs), environmental management, and involving local youth and businesses in the construction process. Leaders stressed the importance of ensuring that communities along the railway benefit directly from this infrastructure investment.
According to officials, the railway extension is expected to boost economic activities in Kisumu and nearby counties by improving transportation for both goods and passengers. It should also create job opportunities for thousands of young people and skilled workers during the construction phase.
The County Government emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in involving affected communities. They plan to conduct grassroots consultations to help residents understand the project and take part in the decision-making process.For many residents, the project represents a long-awaited chance for development and economic growth.
Peter Ochieng, a resident of Ahero, expressed his hope for the project and thanked both the County and National government for including the region in the railway expansion.”We appreciate the opportunity coming to our region from both the county and national government. This project will not only improve transport but also create jobs for us youths and open business opportunities for many families here in Kisumu,” he said.
Ochieng noted that many young people in the area are eager to get involved in the construction work once it begins.
Community members are now calling for ongoing transparency and engagement as preparations progress. They hope the railway extension will signal a new chapter of economic transformation for Kisumu and the wider western Kenya region.
