After a prolonged period of uncertainty largely attributed to funding challenges, Phase 2B and 2C of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) line from Naivasha to Malaba via Kisumu now appears set to commence, following near-simultaneous launches in Narok and Kisumu this weekend.
The KES 500 billion project is expected to be completed in 2027, according to Kenya Railways – an ambitious timeline given the track record of large-scale public infrastructure projects in the country.
Notably, the launch of Phase 2C from Kisumu to Malaba was attended by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. Uganda, which is currently constructing its own SGR from Malaba, stands to be the biggest beneficiary of Kenya’s 1,000 km line, as it will significantly enhance cargo movement to the landlocked country that relies heavily on the Port of Mombasa and has long grappled with inefficiencies in road transport. However, Uganda’s own SGR development – particularly the Malaba-Kampala section – had also lagged behind due to financing challenges. The full benefits of the corridor will depend on the timely completion of both countries’ segments.
The Naivasha–Kisumu section will run from Emurtoto in Narok County to Kisumu, including an 8.69 km branch line to Kisumu Port. The line will feature six intermediate stations at Narok, Mulot, Bomet, Sotik, Sondu, and Ahero, and will pass through 17 crossing sections across Narok, Bomet, Nyamira, Kericho, and Kisumu counties.
The 107 km Kisumu–Malaba section will include two intermediate stations at Yala and Mumias, as well as six crossing stations—Kisian West, Ramala, Yala, Musanda, Manyulia, and Amukura—traversing Kisumu, Siaya, Vihiga, Kakamega, and Busia counties.
