Kenya seeking China loan to extend SGR to Malaba
Kenya seeking China loan to extend the SGR project to Malaba according to Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen
Kenya seeking China loan to extend the SGR project to Malaba according to Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen.
On December 15, Kipchumba Murkomen, the cabinet secretary for transportation, disclosed that the government was seeking to collaborate with the Chinese government to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Mai Mahiu to Malaba.
Kenya offered a five-year plan to expand SGR from Suswa to Malaba and into Uganda during talks led by President William Ruto.
The cost-prohibitive railway line will run from Narok through Bomet, Nyamira, Kisumu, and Malaba.
“In the long run, we would like to complete the connection of the SGR from Suswa to Kisumu through Bomet, Nyamira, parts of Kisii, and then to Malaba. Later, we can think of upgrading the existing Metre Gauge Railway via Nakuru to Kisumu and via Eldoret to Malaba,” read Murkomen’s statement.
Auditor-General raises queries over missing Sh21bn China loan
China sets new loan terms for Kenya, deviating from previous engagements
China fines Kenya Sh1.31bn over SGR loan default
The CS emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza Government was anxious to modernize its railway and pointed out that it was a more cost-effective mode of transportation.
Additionally, he said that reliable employment may be secured and that the railway networks are safe for the transfer of commodities.
“There is no need for the railway to be taken to the bush. We will take it to the city of Nakuru, Eldoret, and then to Kisumu and thereafter connect it to Uganda,” Murkomen stated.
The statement comes after Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni ordered his Transport Minister to ensure that the country’s SGR reaches the Kenyan border.
Meanwhile, Murkomen also commissioned the Rail Mounted Gantry cranes to ease the loading and offloading of containers from trailers to SGR and MGR trains.
“We are also keen to utilize rail transport which is fast, safe, and cheaper to enhance transportation of goods and people. We will also be working to restore passenger trains along the old MGR routes,” Murkomen noted.
The CS stated that the Government would increase the number of wagons and coaches on several routes, including the Kisumu line.
Also read,
US Government to fund Kenyan Youth programme with Ksh12 Billion
Visa to support Ruto’s flagship programme, Hustler Fund Loans
Ruto’s costly foreign trips putting the Treasury in a tight spot
Luo leaders defend Raila Odinga following attacks
Follow us
