The Kenyan government has unveiled its plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) network, with a focus on completing Phase 2B and initiating Phase 2C. Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar confirmed the administration’s commitment to this significant infrastructure project during a visit by 20 African ambassadors on Wednesday.

Phase 2B of the SGR extension will cover 362 kilometers from Naivasha to Kisumu, including a branch line connecting to Kisumu port. Furthermore, Phase 2C will extend the railway by 106 kilometers from Kisumu to Malaba. Daghar emphasized that collaboration with the National Treasury and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is crucial for the successful realization of these plans.

The announcement was made at the SGR terminus in Syokimau, where the ambassadors were on a one-day tour to explore major infrastructural developments funded by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga was also present during the event.

The BRI, spearheaded by China, is an extensive global infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade across continents. The ambassadors’ visit included a tour of the expressway, guided by the Chinese Ambassador, highlighting the success and impact of the BRI-funded projects. According to Daghar, the expressway has seen an impressive traffic volume, handling more than 69,000 vehicles daily.

Following the expressway tour, the delegation visited the SGR terminus and is scheduled to continue their visit to other key projects in Mombasa. This tour precedes the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, set to take place from September 3 to 7, where discussions on further collaboration are expected.

Daghar underscored that Kenya’s involvement in the BRI is a testament to its growing role in regional infrastructure development. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei highlighted the critical importance of connectivity for unlocking Africa’s full potential, including its agricultural, industrial, and mineral resources. “Connectivity is core to development, progress, and transformation,” Sing’Oei stated.

He further noted that without robust connectivity, countries struggle to realize the benefits of free trade areas. “Our collective efforts are aimed at appreciating Kenya’s contributions to regional road, rail, and digital connectivity,” Sing’Oei added.

The visit and discussions are part of Kenya’s strategic engagement with the Belt and Road Initiative, with President William Ruto expected to showcase Kenya’s achievements and future goals at the forthcoming summit. This partnership with China is poised to significantly impact the economic transformation and development trajectory of Kenya and the broader African continent.