Kenya to Begin Construction of Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba SGR Extension in July 2026 to Boost Regional Trade
Construction of the long-awaited Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension is set to begin in July 2026, with Kenya Railways confirming that preparations for the multi-billion-shilling project are in their final stages.
The state corporation has intensified pre-construction activities, including public consultations with affected landowners and inspections of properties earmarked for compulsory acquisition along the railway corridor.
A recent stakeholder engagement forum was held in Kisumu County on June 24, 2026, where Kenya Railways officials met residents whose land will be affected by the planned Kibos Terminus, a key station on the new line.
The affected parcels fall under Gazette Notice No. 4986 of April 2, 2026, which formalised the acquisition process.
During the meeting, officials presented the design of Kibos Terminus and outlined the extent of land required for construction.
The National Land Commission (NLC) also explained the legal framework for valuation, compensation, and compulsory acquisition under the Land Act, 2012.
Valuation and inspection of the gazetted properties began on June 25, 2026, forming a critical step in the compensation process ahead of construction.
Preparations are also ongoing in other counties along the route. Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga recently led inspections in Narok County, reviewing sections of the proposed corridor as part of final readiness assessments.
According to Kenya Railways, the project has now moved from planning to implementation following the completion of route planning and validation exercises that informed the final design.
The extension of the SGR from Naivasha through Kisumu to Malaba at the Uganda border is a flagship government infrastructure project aimed at improving freight transport efficiency, reducing logistics costs, and strengthening trade along the Northern Corridor.
Once completed, the railway is expected to enhance regional integration by providing a seamless link between Kenya and Uganda and forming part of the wider East African SGR network.
The project, estimated at Sh700 billion, was awarded to Chinese contractors China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC).
With construction now imminent, the Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba SGR extension is set to become one of Kenya’s most significant infrastructure investments, supporting trade growth, job creation, and improved regional connectivity across East Africa.
