Uhuru renews attack on Joho ahead of SGR launch

 

President Uhuru Kenyatta and DP William Ruto flags off a cargo freight services of the Standard Gauge Railway at Port Reitz Station in Mombasa on 30th MAy,2017. picture; Boniface Okendo

President Uhuru Kenyatta last evening launched the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) cargo freight services, describing the mega project as a springboard for the country's economic take-off.

Today the President, other dignitaries and 47 pupils from schools from each of the 47 counties will board the maiden passenger train in Mombasa for a 472km journey to Nairobi.

Yesterday, Uhuru, as he flagged off the cargo train from Port Reitz that was expected in Nairobi last night, said the SGR would spur development in the six counties it cuts through.

"The drop in cost of freight and fares will make Kenya a more attractive investment destination. More investors will lead to more jobs and growth in our economy," said the Head of State.

Deputy President William Ruto termed the construction of the SGR Uhuru's legacy, saying it would lead to a drop in freight rates and cost of transport in the country.

"It will go down in history that after over 100 years when the lunatic rail was built in this country, President Uhuru Kenyatta oversaw the construction of a modern rail that will revolutionise this country," said Ruto.

Meanwhile, Uhuru said his administration had implemented projects worth billions of shillings in the Coast region.

Other projects the DP said were underway include the airport road projects at a cost of Sh5.2 billion and a 10km road linking Miritini to the second container terminal at Sh12 billion.

The DP said tenders for the construction of Sh20 billion bridge linking Mombasa and Kwale at Dongo Kundu had been awarded.

Another project is the Mombasa-Mariakani dual carriageway, which will cost Sh80 billion.

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho, a fierce critic of Uhuru, has accused him of sidelining the Coast region in his development plans and allegedly re-launching same projects to hoodwink the voters.

Uhuru yesterday renewed his criticism of Joho, accusing him of failure to deal with garbage problem in the coastal county.

The President urged Coast residents to reject the Opposition in the August 8 polls.

He addressed supporters in Changamwe after arriving at Moi International Airport and later launched the SGR freight train service at Mombasa port.

Joho did not attend Uhuru's functions.