SGR Extension Naivasha to Kisumu

Reduced transport costs, faster cargo movement, agricultural export facilitation, regional economic growth, job creation, port connectivity

The extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Kisumu remains a top priority for the Kenyan government, aiming to connect western Kenya to the SGR network that currently runs from Mombasa to Naivasha. The project would traverse the Rift Valley and descend to Kisumu on the shores of Lake Victoria, following a route through Narok, Bomet, or the traditional rail corridor through Nakuru and Kericho. The SGR extension has been discussed since the initial SGR phases were planned and is considered critical for reducing transport costs for agricultural produce from western Kenya and facilitating Lake Victoria trade. However, the project has faced significant funding challenges, with China's reduced appetite for infrastructure lending and Kenya's growing debt concerns. As of 2025, the government continues to list it as a priority but no construction timeline has been set.

Would transform western Kenya's economic prospects by providing efficient rail access to Mombasa port, reducing transport costs for agricultural exports and industrial inputs. Critical for the Lake Region Economic Bloc's growth aspirations.