East Africa is on track for a transportation revolution as Uganda and Kenya make significant strides in expanding their Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) networks. Over the weekend, Uganda took a major leap forward by signing the Limited Notice to Proceed (LNTP) with Turkish construction giant Yapi Merkezi, marking the official start of early works for the country’s SGR project. Meanwhile, Kenya is pushing ahead with its own SGR expansion, extending the railway from Naivasha to Kisumu and building a new lake port to boost regional trade. These developments signal a new era of connectivity and economic growth for the region.

The signing of the LNTP in Kampala was a momentous occasion, attended by key figures including Ministry of Works and Transport Permanent Secretary Bageya Waiswa, Yapi Merkezi’s Uganda representative Mert Oz, and SGR Uganda chief Can. Eng. Perez Wamburu. The agreement paves the way for preliminary activities to kick off, bringing Uganda closer to realizing its dream of a modern, efficient railway system. The SGR project is expected to transform Uganda’s transport sector, reducing the cost of moving goods and people while boosting trade and economic development.

Uganda’s SGR will connect the country to Kenya’s existing railway network, creating a seamless transport corridor from the Indian Ocean port of Mombasa to Kampala and beyond. This integration is crucial for landlocked Uganda, as it will provide a faster and more reliable route for imports and exports. The project is also expected to create thousands of jobs during construction and operation, offering a much-needed boost to the local economy.

As Uganda moves forward with its plans, Kenya is making impressive progress on its own SGR expansion. The Kenyan government has successfully marked the alignment for Phase 2B of the project, which will stretch approximately 262 kilometers from Naivasha to Kisumu. This phase will pass through Narok, Bomet, Kericho, and Kisumu counties, following a new route designed to optimize efficiency and minimize disruptions. A resettlement study has already been commissioned to ensure fair compensation for communities affected by the railway’s construction.

One of the most exciting aspects of Kenya’s SGR expansion is the development of a new lake port in Kisumu. The port will feature two multipurpose berths and a work boat berth, enhancing the safe docking of ships and reinforcing Kisumu’s role as a key hub for regional trade. An 8-kilometer branch line will extend into Lake Victoria, connecting the port to the SGR network and facilitating the smooth movement of goods between rail and water transport. This integration is expected to significantly reduce transportation costs and boost trade within the East African Community (EAC).

The SGR projects in both Uganda and Kenya are more than just infrastructure developments; they are catalysts for regional integration and economic growth. By improving connectivity and reducing transportation costs, the railways will make it easier for businesses to access markets, attract investment, and create jobs. They will also enhance the movement of people, fostering cultural exchange and tourism across the region.

For Uganda, the SGR represents a long-awaited solution to the challenges of high transport costs and poor infrastructure. The country’s reliance on road transport has often led to delays, high costs, and damage to goods, particularly for landlocked regions. The SGR promises to address these issues by providing a faster, more reliable, and cost-effective alternative.

Kenya’s SGR expansion, on the other hand, builds on the success of the existing railway, which has already transformed the country’s transport sector. Since its launch, the SGR has significantly reduced the time and cost of moving goods from Mombasa to Nairobi, boosting trade and economic activity. The extension to Kisumu and the development of the lake port will further enhance these benefits, creating new opportunities for businesses and communities in western Kenya and beyond.

The progress in both countries underscores the importance of regional cooperation in achieving sustainable development. By working together to build a seamless transport network, Uganda and Kenya are setting an example for other East African nations. The SGR projects are a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision in driving economic growth and improving the lives of millions.

As the SGR projects move forward, the people of Uganda and Kenya can look forward to a brighter future. The railways will not only transform the way goods and people move but also open up new opportunities for trade, investment, and development. With each milestone, East Africa moves closer to realizing its potential as a regional powerhouse, connected by modern infrastructure and driven by a shared commitment to progress.

Uganda’s Permanent Secretary Bageya Waiswa further said, “This is a new chapter for our nation and our region. Together, we are building a future of connectivity, opportunity, and growth.” As the SGR projects gain momentum, one thing is clear: East Africa is on the fast track to a brighter, more connected future.