The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Kenya Railways Corporation has commissioned a technical team to conduct an environmental and social impact assessment in preparation for extending the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu.
As part of the groundwork, the team is evaluating potential environmental and social effects while formulating mitigation strategies in collaboration with Project-Affected Persons (PAPs).
Kenya Railways Engineer Tobias Otieno, during a courtesy visit to Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, revealed that the alignment for the 262 km Phase 2B SGR route has already been mapped by the team handling the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) study.
Otieno noted that Kenya Railways has intensified preparations for the extension, which is expected to transform transportation in the western region by improving connectivity between Kisumu, Nairobi, and other major economic centers.
“This project will also enhance regional links from Naivasha to Malaba and Kampala, with further connections to South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC),” said Eng. Otieno.
Governor Nyong’o welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that beyond improving transport, it would generate substantial economic opportunities for the region.
He highlighted that the project includes constructing a new lake port in Kisumu and a Standard Gauge Railway branch linking it to the port. This development aims to strengthen connectivity between the Port of Mombasa and Kisumu while creating numerous employment opportunities.
“The SGR extension is a game-changer for Kisumu and the entire western Kenya region. It will drive economic growth and establish a dependable transport network across the country,” he remarked.
The environmental and social impact assessment will evaluate potential consequences on local ecosystems, communities, and infrastructure. The study’s findings will guide the project’s planning and execution to uphold environmental and social standards.
Upon completion, the SGR extension is expected to significantly enhance freight and passenger transport, boost trade and tourism, and foster regional integration. Additionally, it will support the growth of key sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, aligning with Kenya’s broader economic development objectives.
