Kisumu County has entered a new phase of development following the groundbreaking of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Phase 2C line linking Kisumu to Malaba. The event brought together William Ruto and Yoweri Museveni, signaling strong regional cooperation and renewed focus on trade and infrastructure.
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga described the project as a major milestone for the county and the wider western region. She noted that the railway extension is expected to unlock long-standing economic opportunities, especially those linked to Lake Victoria.
A key feature of the project is the 8.6-kilometre rail link connecting the main line to Kisumu Port. This connection is expected to improve cargo movement and position the lakeside city as a strategic trade hub in East Africa. Leaders believe that better access to the port will increase business activity and attract both local and international investors.
The project is also expected to create employment opportunities during construction and after completion. Plans indicate that at least 26 stations will be developed along the route. These stations are likely to open up smaller towns, support local businesses, and create jobs for many young people across the region.
Improved transport is expected to reduce the cost of moving goods. Farmers and traders in Kisumu and neighboring counties are likely to benefit from faster access to markets. This could lead to better prices for farm produce and increased earnings for small-scale businesses.