By Joshua Otieno | March 19, 2026
William Ruto has officially launched the long-awaited extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Malaba, marking a major step in Kenya’s infrastructure development agenda.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held in Motunyi near Narok Teachers Training College, signaling the revival of a project that had stalled for years due to funding constraints.
A Boost to Regional Trade
The Sh549 billion project aims to link the Port of Mombasa directly to the Uganda border, strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional logistics and trade hub.
“The SGR extension will unlock the economic potential of Western Kenya and strengthen regional integration,” President Ruto said.
The railway will connect Kenya to key regional markets including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Project Breakdown
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Phase 2B: Naivasha to Kisumu (269 km) – Sh380 billion
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Phase 2C: Kisumu to Malaba – Sh169 billion
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Total Cost: Sh549 billion
The route will pass through Narok, Bomet, Nyamira, Kericho, and Kisumu, with 25 new stations planned, including key stops in Narok, Bomet, Sondu, Ahero, and Kibos.
The government expects the Naivasha–Kisumu section to be operational by June 2027.
Economic Impact
According to the President, the project will:
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Cut transport costs by about 35%
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Ease congestion on major highways
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Enhance trade and connectivity across the Lake Basin region
Strategic Partnerships
Construction will be led by China Communications Construction Company and China Road and Bridge Corporation.
The project will be financed through a mix of government funding—including Sh30 billion allocated in the current financial year—and strategic partnerships aimed at reducing reliance on expensive external debt.
The SGR extension is expected to play a transformative role in boosting trade, improving logistics, and driving economic growth across Kenya and the wider East and Central Africa region.
