By Joel Clinton
Residents of Kisumu West Constituency have welcomed the commencement of the long-awaited tarmacking of the Holo–Lela Road, describing it as a landmark development that will improve transport, boost trade, and enhance access to essential services.
The project, which has been a key demand from residents for years, officially got underway with construction equipment moving to the site. Once complete, the road is expected to transform movement within the constituency by reducing travel time, lowering vehicle maintenance costs, and improving connectivity between villages, markets, schools, and health facilities. For many residents, the road has long been a challenge, especially during the rainy season when it becomes muddy and nearly impassable. Farmers have also struggled to transport their produce to markets due to the poor condition of the road.
“I have lived here for more than 20 years, and every election we were promised this road would be tarmacked. Today we are finally seeing machines on the ground, and that gives us hope that our children and businesses will benefit from better transport,” said Christine Achieng, a resident of Holo.
Peter Ouma, said the project would stimulate economic growth across the constituency. “This road will change our lives. Farmers will transport their produce with ease, traders will spend less on transport, and even emergency services will reach us faster. We only ask the contractor to complete the work within the agreed time,” he said.
Speaking during the launch of the project, Kisumu West Member of Parliament Rozzah Akinyi Buyu said the road forms part of her commitment to improving infrastructure and opening up economic opportunities for residents. “The Holo–Lela Road has remained a priority because I understand the challenges our people have endured for many years. This project is not just about laying tarmac; it is about connecting communities, improving access to education and healthcare, supporting businesses, and creating opportunities for economic growth. I will continue working with all stakeholders to ensure the project is completed to the highest standards for the benefit of every resident of Kisumu West,” said Buyu.
Residents have expressed optimism that the road will mark the beginning of more development projects across the constituency. They have also urged the contractor to maintain quality standards and complete the work on schedule so that the community can begin enjoying the full benefits of the much-anticipated infrastructure project.
