Sh1.5b bridge on Lake Victoria leads to growth of Rusinga township

Rusinga township has grown fast in the past two years after completion of Mbita bridge. 

The bridge was constructed by the Kenya National Highways Authority at a cost of Sh1.5 billion in early 2017.

A few years before construction of the bridge, Rusinga township looked bushy and dull. Businesspersons shied away from investing in the centre.

Duncan Aoko, a 43-year-old resident and businessman in the township, said those who visited the area 30 years ago cannot believe how rapidly Rusinga township has developed.

“I have realised that infrastructure is a significant requirement for urbanisation. Many locals and non-locals have started various business enterprises here because of this bridge,” said Aoko.

Land cheaper

According to Rusinga Island MCA Okuku Miregi, many entrepreneurs have realised the cost of land is cheaper on Rusinga than Mbita side.

Traders are now calling on the county government to complete construction of a market that was started by the defunct local authority in the township.

The bridge has also opened Rusinga island, with a population of about 30,000, for education opportunities. Many pupils from the mainland can now go to schools on Rusinga island.

The bridge has also enhanced tourism on Rusinga island, which is considered a historic site. Historians like visiting the island to study the origin of man.