The recent establishment of a Uganda Railway Corporation (URC) office in Kisumu, coupled with the appointment of a business liaison officer, is expected to significantly enhance the coordination of business activities at Kisumu Port. This move is seen as a strategic step towards boosting maritime trade across Lake Victoria.
During a courtesy visit to Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o's office, Uganda Railway Corporation's Managing Director, CPA Musoke David Bulega, and Ms. Hilda Akabwai discussed the potential benefits of these developments. The new URC office will serve as a vital link between Kisumu and Ugandan business stakeholders, ensuring smoother operations and better communication.
The officials highlighted that with the completion of the rehabilitation of the Malaba-Kampala-Port Bell route, the movement of goods from Uganda to Kisumu will be greatly improved. This rehabilitation is expected to streamline the transportation of goods, making it more efficient and reliable, and thereby fostering increased trade between Uganda and Kenya.
Governor Nyong’o welcomed the initiative, noting that the enhanced coordination and improved infrastructure would not only benefit Kisumu but also the wider East African region by promoting economic integration and cooperation. The revival of the Malaba-Kampala-Port Bell route, combined with the strategic position of Kisumu Port, will position the region as a key hub for trade and commerce in the Great Lakes area.
This development is a positive step towards strengthening bilateral relations and expanding trade networks across East Africa, which could lead to more job opportunities, economic growth, and regional prosperity.