Construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension phases 2B and 2C, from Naivasha through Kisumu to Malaba, is set to begin in March 2026. Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o confirmed this after a consultative meeting with local leaders and national government officials. The meeting focused on land acquisition and compensation for affected residents.
Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o announced that construction of the SGR phases 2B and 2C will start in March 2026, following a meeting held in Kisumu on February 24, 2026. The meeting included representatives from Kenya Railways Corporation, the National Land Commission, and other national stakeholders to discuss the implementation of this multi-billion-shilling infrastructure project.
Nyong'o stated, “Construction of SGR Phase 2B & 2C from Naivasha via Kisumu to Malaba begins in March,” though he did not specify an exact starting date. Discussions prioritized fair and timely compensation for individuals whose land and property will be affected by the railway construction, ensuring transparency in the processes to prevent disputes and delays.
The announcement came days after the government formally initiated land acquisition processes for the rail extension to Kisumu. Kenya Railways officials explained how parcels would be identified, surveyed, and valued before compensation is processed.
Leaders also emphasized the need to create employment opportunities for local youth during the construction phase and beyond. They agreed to advocate for the inclusion of local enterprises in supply chains, subcontracting, and other business opportunities linked to the project.
The Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba extension is part of a plan to connect the existing SGR line from Mombasa and Nairobi to western Kenya and further to Malaba at the Uganda border. Phase 2B covers the stretch from Naivasha to Kisumu, traversing five counties: Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Nyamira, and Kisumu. Phase 2C will connect Kisumu to Malaba, aiming to enhance regional trade, reduce transport costs, and strengthen economic integration in the Lake Basin corridor.
The project has previously undergone feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments, paving the way for the current land acquisition phase.
