By Patrick Amimo
In a major policy breakthrough, the Kenyan government has resolved the long-standing funding challenges that had stalled critical infrastructure projects nationwide. The move marks a turning point for the country's road sector, particularly in the Nyanza region, where construction has resumed on one of its most strategic highways.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the reconstruction of Mamboleo Junction–Miwani–Chemelil–Muhoroni–Kipsitet road, Deputy Chief of Staff in the Executive Office of the President in charge of performance and delivery management, Mr. Eliud Owalo, confirmed that funding bottlenecks have been addressed.
“The government has now unlocked the funding challenge for the road sector that we have been witnessing over the past two years. All stalled roads in the country will be completed in the not-too-distant future,” said Mr. Owalo.
The 122-kilometre road that is being implemented by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) at a cost of Ksh.15.7 billion is a strategic investment in regional infrastructure and is divided into three lots, executed by China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group Ltd, Sinohydro JV with Grageb Agencies, and H. Young EA Ltd.
At the heart of the renewed reconstruction effort is the 33.9 km stretch between Mamboleo Junction and Miwani. The road connects Kisumu, Nandi, and Kericho counties and serves as a crucial artery into neighbouring regions. More importantly, it provides vital access to Kenya’s sugar belt - one of the nation’s key agricultural zones.
Previously a stalled project, the contractor is now back on site and progressing with works. The 33.9 km stretch will cost Ksh.5.2 billion.
“This is a major game-changer. It will unlock the economic potential of the entire sugar belt and boost regional trade. We are happy to report that the contractor is back on site, thanks to recent government payments,” Mr. Owalo noted.
Construction work is being carried out by China Railway No.10 Engineering Group Limited. Speaking on site, project engineer Mr. Li Jingang confirmed receipt of payments and pledged swift progress.
“The government has paid us. We are back and committed to delivering quality work for Kenya and Kisumu,” said Mr. Jingang.
Engineer Linet Atieno from the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) echoed the optimism, urging the government to maintain momentum in payment processing.
“We appreciate the government's efforts. Our commitment is to deliver, and we ask for continued fast-tracking of funds to avoid future delays.”
Local leaders have welcomed the development. Mr. Benson Adega, Member of County Assembly for Kajulu Ward, praised the government’s swift action.
“I thank Mr. Eliud Owalo. He promised that within two weeks the contractor would be back - and here they are. Now the responsibility lies with the contractor to deliver.”
The second lot involves reconstruction of 43.4 km stretch between Miwani and Chemelil to bitumen standards at a cost of Ksh.4.96 billion. Synohydro JV with Gragab Agencies are conducting construction work.
The third lot involves reconstruction of 44.7 km stretch between Chemelil to Kipsitet to bitumen standards at an estimated cost of Ksh.5.7 billion under H. Young EA Ltd.
Once complete, the 122 km Mamboleo Junction–Miwani–Chemelil–Muhoroni–Kipsitet road will significantly boost mobility, trade, and economic integration across Kisumu, Kericho, Nandi, and Nyamira Counties.
The government’s infrastructure ambitions stretch beyond roads. At Kisumu International Airport, construction is underway on a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Control Tower and radar systems, aimed at enhancing flight safety, boosting cargo export capacity, and enhancing regional connectivity.
“We envision the airport as a gateway for exporting agricultural and fish produce to global markets,” said Mr. Owalo. “This is a core part of the Kenya Airports Authority’s masterplan.”
The new tower will offer enhanced visibility, modern communication systems, and increased operational capacity. Mr. Robert Omusonga, Station Manager, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kisumu International Airport, emphasized its strategic significance.
“This facility places us at the heart of East Africa’s aviation future. It will improve efficiency and position Kisumu as a regional aviation hub,” he stated.
Kisumu International Airport’s modern Air Traffic Control Tower is currently at almost 90% implementation status under the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority in partnership with Polish Contractors Company Limited.
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