Kenya Railways Corporation has initiated an environmental and social impact assessment in preparation for the much-anticipated extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu. This critical project is expected to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth in western Kenya and beyond.
A dedicated technical team has been deployed to evaluate potential environmental and social impacts, engaging directly with project-affected people (PAPs) to develop effective mitigation strategies. This assessment is a crucial step in ensuring that the project proceeds sustainably while addressing concerns from local communities.
During a courtesy call on Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, Kenya Railways Engineer Tobias Otieno confirmed that the Phase 2B SGR alignment, spanning 262 kilometers, has already been delineated. The team responsible for the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) study has marked the route, setting the stage for the next phases of development.
Kenya Railways has intensified its preparatory activities for the extension, which is expected to transform transportation in the western region. The new railway line will link Kisumu to Nairobi and other key economic hubs, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers more efficiently.
“This project also aims to improve regional connectivity from Naivasha to Malaba and Kampala, with further links to South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC),” Eng. Otieno stated.
Governor Nyong’o expressed strong support for the project, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize transportation and create vast economic opportunities for Kisumu and surrounding areas. He noted that the project also includes the construction of a new lake port in Kisumu, which will be connected to the Standard Gauge Railway, further boosting trade and commerce.
“The SGR is a transformative project for Kisumu and the entire Western Kenya region,” said Nyong’o. “By enhancing connectivity between the Port of Mombasa and Kisumu, the project will open up significant employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.”
The extension of the SGR aligns with Kenya’s broader infrastructure development agenda, improving links between Kenya and its East African neighbors. The railway extension is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade between Kenya and landlocked countries, strengthening the region’s economic prospects.
As environmental and social impact assessments continue, Kenya Railways remains committed to working closely with affected communities and stakeholders to ensure a seamless implementation of the project. With its far-reaching economic and infrastructural benefits, the SGR extension promises to reshape the future of transportation in Western Kenya and the wider East African region.
