April 16, 2026

newsline

Timely – Precise – Factual

Mainga Steers SGR Extension to Kisumu, Malaba as March Groundbreaking Looms

Narok County on Wednesday hosted a high-level consultative meeting that signaled renewed momentum for the expansion of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

Managing Director Philip Mainga led a delegation from Kenya Railways Corporation alongside officials from the National Land Commission in talks with Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu.

The strategic engagement focused on preparations for SGR Phases 2B and 2C, with construction officially slated to break ground in March 2026.

The extension will cover approximately 269 kilometres from Narok to Kisumu before proceeding to Malaba at the Kenya–Uganda border. Once complete, the corridor is expected to ease passenger travel and significantly enhance freight movement toward regional markets.

Transport stakeholders view the project as a major step in strengthening Kenya’s regional connectivity and trade competitiveness.

Beyond faster trains, the Narok–Kisumu–Malaba stretch is projected to unlock investment in logistics hubs, warehousing, hospitality and agro-processing sectors across counties along the route.

Leaders in Narok expressed optimism that the railway will create employment opportunities and stimulate long-term economic growth.


Deliberations also centered on land acquisition, compensation processes and community engagement — key responsibilities under the National Land Commission’s mandate.

Governor Ntutu welcomed the progress, emphasizing the importance of close coordination between national and county governments to ensure smooth implementation.

With the March 2026 groundbreaking fast approaching, Mainga’s push to advance the SGR expansion marks a significant chapter in Kenya’s broader infrastructure development agenda.