Construction of Sh700b SGR extension to Malaba begins
EMILY KADZO AND HILLARY SHIMNAGHA-KNA
The long-awaited construction of the Naivasha– Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension has officially commenced in Narok County, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s ambitious plan to modernize its transport infrastructure and strengthen regional trade links.
The Sh700 billion contract for the railway extension was awarded to Chinese firms China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), both of which have previously undertaken major infrastructure projects in Kenya.
Their involvement underscores the government’s commitment to delivering the project to international standards of quality and efficiency.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga, Narok County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia, County Secretary Mayian Tuya, officials from the national government, representatives of the National Land Commission (NLC), project contractors, local leaders, and community stakeholders.
Speaking during the launch, Mainga said the SGR extension is expected to enhance transport efficiency between the Port of Mombasa and the Uganda border.
He noted that the railway forms part of the government’s broader plan to extend the SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu and onward to Malaba, improving cargo movement and boosting transport efficiency along the Northern Corridor.
Beyond freight, Mainga disclosed that the project is expected to stimulate local economies, create employment opportunities, and attract new investments in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
“The Naivasha–Kisumu– Malaba SGR extension is more than just a railway it is a symbol of Kenya’s commitment to regional integration, economic transformation, and sustainable development.”
“Once complete, it will not only ease cargo movement but also redefine Kenya’s position as a gateway to East Africa,” said Mainga.
He noted that the project will generate thousands of jobs during construction and deliver long-term economic benefits through improved logistics, regional connectivity, and more efficient freight transport.
“NarokNorthern Corridor. Beyond freight, Mainga disclosed that the project is expected to stimulate local economies, create employment opportunities, and attract new investments in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
“The Naivasha–Kisumu– Malaba SGR extension is more than just a railway it is a symbol of Kenya’s commitment to regional integration, economic transformation, and sustainable development.”
“Once complete, it will not only ease cargo movement but also redefine Kenya’s position as a gateway to East Africa,” said Mainga.
He noted that the project will generate thousands of jobs during construction and deliver long-term economic benefits through improved logistics, regional connectivity, and more efficient freight transport.
“Narok County, which covers approximately 100 kilometres of the SGR corridor, plays a critical role in this transformative infrastructure project. The people of Narok have shown great enthusiasm and optimism, reflecting the immense opportunities it is expected to unlock for the region,” Mainga said.
He urged landowners and affected individuals to cooperate with government agencies during the land acquisition process, assuring them that compensation and valuation would be handled transparently under the Land Act, 2012.
Mainga encouraged residents to engage directly with the NLC to ensure their concerns are addressed fairly.
The commencement of construction follows Kenya Railways’ announcement that the land acquisition process for the proposed Kisumu SGR Terminus is progressing steadily.
A multisectoral team, working jointly with the NLC, is conducting ground verification to ensure all affected parcels and properties are accurately identified.
“This meticulous approach reflects our commitment to delivering the project responsibly balancing the need for timely infrastructure development with the protection of the rights and interests of every affected person,” Mainga explained.
He stressed that transparency and fairness are central to the process, reinforcing Kenya Railways’ pledge to safeguard community interests.
According to the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the extension will be implemented in two phases.
Phase 2B will cover approximately 264 kilometres from Naivasha to Kisumu, including an 8.9-kilometre branch line to Kisumu Port.
Phase 2C will extend the line from Kisumu to Malaba, linking Kenya’s railway network with Uganda and supporting future regional integration.
The new railway will traverse Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Nyamira and Kisumu before terminating at Malaba on the Kenya-Uganda border.
This route forms a vital section of the Northern Corridor transport network, which is expected to boost trade with East African countries and cement Kenya’s role as the region’s logistics hub.
Narok County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia highlighted the broader benefits of the project, noting that it will spur industrial growth, tourism, and investment in counties along the corridor.