Kenyan government plans to utilise the railway levy charged on imported goods to boost funding for the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to Malaba.
Roads and Transport CS Davis Chirchir says the government is also keen on private-sector partnerships for the development of supportive infrastructure and cargo-handling facilities, mainly around the Naivasha Inland Container Depot and economic zones along the line.
”The Standard Gauge Railway project is a critical installation for the region as it will reduce pressure on roads saving road repair costs, reduce carbon footprint and ensure East Africa competes favorably in the continent’s Business and Commerce sector,” he said.
Feasibility, Environmental and Social Impact studies have been completed for the 475-kilometre line SGR phase 2B (Naivasha-Kisumu) and 2C (Kisumu-Malaba), set for construction at an estimated cost of Sh645.8 billion.
The project is expected to run through Narok, Bomet, Nyamira, Kisumu and finally Busia county.
Kenya is committed to developing the project concurrently with Uganda and South Sudan, with each country expected to deliver its rail infrastructure for connection at the borders.
CS Chirchir met with Uganda’s State Minister for Transport, H.E. Fred Byamukam, and South Sudan Transport Ministry representative Ms Arek A. Deng in Nairobi and together, the leaders billed that upon completion, the project will greatly improve mobility for passengers and cargo within the region.
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