By Sandra Blessing
The successful completion of the Route Planning and Validation Exercise allows the commencement of works on the Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in July.
Kenya Railways said the Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Project had reached a significant milestone, with progressing preparations for the commencement of construction works.
Similarly, in Kisumu, Kenya Railways intensified preparations for the commencement of construction works on the Standard Gauge Railway Project in Kisumu County, with a public sensitisation meeting for landowners affected by the proposed Kibos Terminus.
The meeting, held on 24th June 2026 at the proposed SGR Terminus in Kibos, brought together landowners whose properties are affected by the project within Kisumu Town East Sub-county, as published in Gazette Notice No. 4986 dated 2nd April 2026.
During the engagement, Kenya Railways presented the proposed design of the Kibos Terminus and guided participants through the identification of properties that will be affected by the project within the terminus area.
The session also provided an opportunity for affected landowners to seek clarification on the project scope, implementation timelines, and the next steps in project delivery.
Representatives from the National Land Commission, led by Director of Valuation and Taxation, Joel Ombati, took participants through the compulsory land acquisition process as provided for under the Land Act, 2012. The team outlined the legal framework governing land acquisition, valuation procedures, compensation processes, and the rights of affected persons throughout the exercise.
The Commission informed participants that inspections of the gazetted properties will commence on 25th June 2026 as part of the ongoing land acquisition and compensation process ahead of the commencement of construction works.
The SGR Project forms part of the Government’s plan to extend the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Kisumu, enhancing regional connectivity, facilitating trade and logistics, creating employment opportunities, and supporting socio-economic development along the Northern Corridor.
Kenya Railways remains committed to ensuring that project implementation is undertaken in a transparent, inclusive, and consultative manner while safeguarding the rights and interests of all affected stakeholders.
The design
Kenya Railways Managing Director, Philip Mainga, accompanied by the Deputy County Commissioner of Narok, John Gathogo, the County Secretary of Narok County Government, Mayiani Tuya, representatives from the National Land Commission (NLC), and the contractor, China Communications Construction Company, led by Wu Jun, conducted a site visit in Narok County to inspect the proposed project corridor and review readiness for the commencement of construction works in July 2026.
The exercise informed the final project design through comprehensive technical, environmental, social, and stakeholder consultations, paving the way for the implementation of a transformative infrastructure project that will boost regional connectivity, expand trade opportunities, create jobs, and accelerate socio-economic development.
Prior to the site visit, the Kenya Railways delegation paid a courtesy call on the Narok County Commissioner. The County Commissioner was represented by the Deputy County Commissioner, Mr John Gathogo, who reaffirmed the National Government Administration’s support for the project and its implementation.
The visit underscored the collaborative efforts between the National Government, the National Land Commission, the Narok County Government, Kenya Railways, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), and other project stakeholders in advancing this transformative railway project. The project is expected to enhance regional connectivity, facilitate trade and investment, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth in Narok County and the broader region.
Mainga said KR was committed to the development of modern, efficient, and sustainable railway infrastructure that supports Kenya’s development agenda and contributes to the country’s long-term socio-economic transformation.
“Through continued collaboration with national and county governments, local communities, and development partners, the Corporation is working to deliver a railway network that strengthens Kenya’s position as a regional transport and logistics hub,” he said.
