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Nyanza03 June 2026 - 16:02

New roads open economic lifeline along Lake Victoria corridor

Leaders and residents alike view the ongoing road developments as a critical step toward addressing years of infrastructure deficits

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by FAITH MATETE
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Ongoing construction of 74-kilometre Mbita–Sindo–Kiabuya–Sori Road, a long-awaited highway that is transforming access in Suba South./FAITH MATETE

Residents of Homa Bay and Migori counties are set to benefit from improved transport networks as the national government accelerates major road infrastructure projects aimed at unlocking economic opportunities, enhancing trade, and strengthening connectivity along the Lake Victoria corridor.

Among the flagship projects is the 74-kilometre Mbita–Sindo–Kiabuya–Sori Road, a long-awaited highway that is transforming access in Suba South, an area that for years remained isolated due to poor road infrastructure.

Before the project commenced, Suba South was one of the few sub-counties in the region without a continuous national highway network, leaving many communities cut off during heavy rains and making the movement of people and goods difficult.

The road, being implemented by the Kenya National Highways Authority, traverses Homa Bay and Migori counties and connects Suba North, Suba South, and Nyatike constituencies. More than 17 kilometres have already been completed to bitumen standards, while construction crews continue with base-layer preparation and other works in the Sindo and Kiabuya sections.

Raymond Omollo, the Principal Secretary for interior and National Administration, who oversees coordination and implementation of national government projects, said the project is already changing livelihoods in the region.

“Suba South and the wider Lake Victoria corridor have for many years suffered from poor connectivity, especially during rainy seasons. The ongoing construction of the Mbita–Sindo–Kiabuya–Sori Road is now reversing that reality by opening up the region and restoring mobility, dignity, and opportunity to our people,” said Omollo.

Once completed, the highway is expected to significantly boost economic activity across the region. Fish traders will enjoy easier access to inland markets, reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening the Blue Economy sector that supports thousands of households around Lake Victoria.

The improved road network is also expected to increase tourist arrivals to Ruma National Park, one of Kenya's unique wildlife destinations, while enhancing cross-border trade between Kenya and Tanzania by reducing transport costs and travel time. Omollo further emphasized the government’s commitment to safety during construction.

“We are working closely with local authorities and security agencies to enforce road safety measures within active construction zones. Public awareness is also critical to ensure that both workers and road users are protected while the project is ongoing,” he said.

Rural Roads Receive Major Upgrade The Mbita–Sindo–Kiabuya–Sori Road project is part of a broader infrastructure push that has gained momentum in Homa Bay County under President William Samoei Ruto’s administration.

Homa Bay reidents witnessing the upgrading of the Wahambla–Nyalkinyi–Imbo (D1351) Road./FAITH MATETE
The county is also witnessing the upgrading of the Wahambla–Nyalkinyi–Imbo (D1351) Road, a project expected to improve local connectivity and stimulate economic growth in rural communities. The road is being upgraded to bitumen standards by the Kenya Rural Roads Authority through full funding from the National Government.

For years, poor road conditions and flooding disrupted transport along the corridor, making it difficult for residents to access markets, schools, and health facilities. The project incorporates modern drainage systems designed to address recurring flooding and seasonal washouts that have historically rendered sections of the road impassable.

Once complete, the road will provide all-weather access between Wahambla, Nyalkinyi, and Imbo trading centres while strengthening their link to Homa Bay Town and other key economic hubs. Omollo noted that the government’s infrastructure push is focused on inclusive growth.

“These investments are deliberate. We want to ensure that no region is left behind. By improving rural roads, we are connecting farmers, traders, and fisherfolk to markets and unlocking economic opportunities across the board,” he said.

Farmers, traders, and fisherfolk are expected to be among the biggest beneficiaries as improved transport networks reduce travel time, lower the cost of moving goods, and create new opportunities for businesses linked to agriculture and the Blue Economy.

The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has also been coordinating local administrative structures and engaging communities to ensure smooth implementation of the project while working with security agencies to guarantee uninterrupted construction works.

Leaders and residents alike view the ongoing road developments as a critical step toward addressing years of infrastructure deficits and positioning the Lake Victoria region as a key driver of economic growth through trade, tourism, and fisheries.

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