The Nyamasaria–Kisumu-Kisian road will be officially opened early next year. This follows a routine inspection carried out by Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and World Bank officials recently.
KeNHA Acting General Manager for Special Projects Engineer David Muchilwa said the delay was occasioned by additional scope of works.
"There were alterations and relocation of existing services, power lines and water sewerage lines which were installed but we can gladly say that the road works will be complete in May 2015," stated Eng Muchilwa.
The road infrastructure development in the area over the recent years has been touted as a pillar to boost the economic potential of the region that is rich in fishing, agriculture and tourism. The roads will also open up the Lake Region for development, including boosting the housing sector, tourism and industrial activities in the area.
The Nyamasaria–Kisumu–Kisian road was commissioned by former President Mwai Kibaki in April 2012, with works contracted to Chinese construction firm, Sino Hydro Corporation. The project is funded jointly by the World Bank and the Government through the Northern Corridor Transport Improvement Project at a cost of Sh5.8 billion.
Scope of works already undertaken includes the upgrading of the section between Nyamasaria and Ondiek junction into a dual carriageway as well as setting up of a new bridge at Nyamasaria.
Bituminous carriageway
Others include construction of the single-bituminous carriageway Kisumu Southern bypass, starting from Nyamasaria and ending at Kondele (a distance of 3.3km), with overpasses at Nyamasaria and Kondele. Foundation works for Busia the interchange, piers and backfill around the structures are also complete.
Other works that have been completed include; the section between Otieno Oyoo junction and Obote Road, which has been constructed as a single carriageway. The dualling of the 1.5km stretch between Oginga Odinga and Busia road leading to the new Kisumu International Airport junction is ongoing, and is expected to be completed soon.
The Nyamasaria-Kisian road will reduce transportation costs, especially for heavy commercial vehicles destined for neighbouring countries through the Busia border. Shopping Malls and hotels are also rapidly increasing along the route which will promote growth in the region and boost its economy and livehoods.
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