Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed today that the long-awaited construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension from Nakuru to Kisumu is scheduled to commence this year. Murkomen stated, “Our commitment is to construct 35 per cent of SGR Phase 2B (Naivasha – Kisumu) by the end of 2024.” This marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to expand the SGR network.

The initial plan for the SGR was to connect Mombasa to Kisumu, but the project was stalled in Nakuru due to funding challenges. However, the government’s renewed commitment to the project signals a new era of progress for the railway infrastructure in Kenya.

Furthermore, the SGR extension is part of a larger vision to enhance regional connectivity. According to a Memorandum of Understanding signed between Kenya and Uganda, the SGR is expected to be extended from Kisumu to Uganda. Murkomen highlighted the potential impact of this extension, stating, “The railway line will be used for the transportation of goods and passengers, enhancing trade between Kenya and Uganda.”

In addition to the SGR extension, the government also announced plans to commence construction of four Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) lines across the country. Murkomen emphasized, “The key commitment is to increase MGR passenger numbers to six million by the end of the year.”