Leaders across the political divide have heaped praise on Kenya Railways and it’s Managing Director Philip Mainga following the swift rollout of the much awaited Naivasha–Kisumu to Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project.
The project, launched by President William Ruto and Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni, has sparked optimism among regional leaders, who now say the long-stalled railway extension is finally gaining the momentum it deserves.
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o lauded the pace at which groundwork has commenced, noting that the project holds transformative potential for the lakeside region.
“For years, this project remained a promise on paper. What we are witnessing now is decisive action. Kenya Railways has demonstrated seriousness in ensuring that Kisumu reclaims its position as a key economic hub,” said Nyong’o.
The governor added that improved rail connectivity will significantly boost trade, ease transportation of goods, and unlock industrial growth in Western Kenya.
Ugenya MP David Ochieng echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the importance of sticking to timelines—something he said has been a major weakness in past infrastructure projects.
“We have seen many projects stall due to bureaucracy and lack of commitment. This time, the speed and coordination by Kenya Railways is commendable. We expect strict adherence to timelines so that wananchi can start benefiting without unnecessary delays,” Ochieng stated.
In Nairobi, Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai also weighed in, praising Mainga’s management style and calling for sustained oversight to ensure value for money.
“This is the kind of efficiency Kenyans want to see. Mainga has shown that with proper leadership, even mega projects can move at the right speed.
However, transparency must go hand in hand with speed to avoid the mistakes of the past,” said Alai.
The SGR line will serve as a critical segment of Kenya’s broader plan to connect the port of Mombasa to the East African hinterland, enhancing trade links with Uganda and beyond.
Analysts say the renewed pace signals a shift in strategy by Kenya Railways, which has in recent months moved to streamline operations, secure financing, and restore public confidence in the multi-billion-shilling railway expansion.
For Mainga who is serving his last term,the praise marks a turning point in a project that has long been dogged by delays and skepticism. With political goodwill now building around the initiative, attention shifts to whether the corporation can maintain the momentum and deliver the railway within the promised timelines.
As construction gathers pace, expectations are high that the SGR extension will not only redefine transport logistics but also reshape the economic landscape of Western Kenya and the wider East African region.
