Kenya is set to receive a significant financial boost from China to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to the Malaba border, enhancing the Nairobi-Nakuru-Malaba road network. This ambitious infrastructure project was discussed during a meeting between Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and the Ambassador of China to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, held on Thursday.
Mudavadi, who played a pivotal role in these discussions, highlighted the importance of this collaboration in bolstering Kenya’s strategic partnership with China. He emphasized that the SGR extension project will play a vital role in fostering regional development and driving economic growth across Kenya and the broader African continent. Mudavadi added, “As Kenya continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with China, this collaboration will be instrumental in driving economic growth, fostering regional development, and contributing to broader prosperity across the African continent.”
The SGR extension project, which is projected to cover 475 kilometers, is expected to be completed by June 2028. The Kenyan government plans to allocate over Ksh. 720 billion for the construction of this critical infrastructure, with the first phase of the project set to begin in early 2025. The goal is to have at least 10 percent of the work completed by June 2025.
This announcement builds on the fruitful discussions that took place during President William Ruto’s visit to China in September 2024, where funding for the SGR extension was one of the major agenda items. The President’s trip underscored Kenya’s commitment to strengthening ties with China, which is set to play a key role in the realization of the country’s infrastructural vision.
The SGR extension will not only enhance transportation between Kenya and Uganda, facilitating trade across the region, but also create thousands of jobs and spur economic activities. It is expected to be a game-changer for the local economy, providing a more efficient, faster, and more reliable mode of transport for goods and passengers along one of Kenya’s busiest trade corridors.
Mudavadi concluded by expressing his warm welcome to Ambassador Guo, wishing her a successful and fulfilling tenure in Kenya. This renewed commitment to infrastructure development highlights Kenya’s determination to continue its economic growth trajectory, with China playing a key role in that future.
