Ruto's SGR, road projects with China hailed by Western leaders

President William Ruto with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, on April 24, 2025. [PCS]

Leaders from Western Kenya have hailed the planned extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Malaba and the expansion of the Nairobi-Nakuru-Malaba highway, which are set to enhance trade and regional connectivity across Kenya and the wider East African region.

This follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between President William Ruto and Chinese President Xi Jinping during Ruto's four-day state visit to China. The project, which will require at least Sh675 billion (US$4.5 billion) to complete, aims to boost the viability and economic impact of the railway, creating new opportunities for the region.

Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka commended President Ruto for securing these key infrastructure deals with China, which he believes will facilitate the seamless movement of goods and people, boosting the economy of the Western region. "We thank the President for securing key benefits for our region from China. The SGR extension and the dual carriageway from Nairobi to Malaba will transform our area into an economic hub. Our region is a gateway for trade and economic activities in East Africa," said Lusaka.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa echoed Lusaka's sentiments, stressing that all governors from the Western region are in full support of President Ruto's infrastructure development efforts, similar to what has been achieved in other regions.

"We are optimistic that our regional economy will improve with the extension of the SGR from Kisumu to Malaba. We also request its extension to Butere, where significant untapped potential lies," said Barasa. He further highlighted that the dual carriageway would help address the long-standing issue of road accidents along the Nairobi-Nakuru-Malaba route.

"We've witnessed numerous accidents on this highway. With the expansion now funded, we anticipate a reduction in road fatalities. As governors from this region, we fully support these projects and the President's initiative, as they will greatly benefit our people and their livelihoods," Barasa added.

Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe also urged President Ruto to continue prioritising development in underdeveloped areas, particularly infrastructure along the Malaba-Eldoret highway.

"Former President Mwai Kibaki built the Thika Superhighway, which transformed the local economy. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta followed suit by constructing the dual carriageway from Thika to Nyeri. These roads allowed easier transport of goods to Nairobi. Similarly, expanding the Mombasa-Malaba highway - long neglected despite being a key trade route - will drive growth," said Mugabe.

He also pointed out that goods from Mombasa Port pass through this corridor, connecting Kenya to other East African countries. The route has long been plagued by accidents at notorious black spots, such as Kaburengu and Salgaa.

"Construction is now ongoing from Rironi to Mau Summit and on to Malaba, which will open up economic opportunities in the Rift Valley, Western, and Nyanza regions, thanks to President Ruto's efforts," Mugabe added.

Nambale MP Geoffrey Mulanya welcomed the proposed developments, stating that they would significantly ease transportation and travel for local communities. "Our people have long struggled with transport and logistics. The SGR and highway expansion will streamline trade and travel. We must support the President on this," said Mulanya.