The Nyanza region, including Kisumu County, is set for a major transformation as the government moves to revive long-stalled development projects.
Once promising but later abandoned due to various challenges, these mega projects are now back on the table, aiming to spur economic growth, improve infrastructure, and uplift the lives of residents across the region.
Here are 10 major projects being revived:
1. Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Extension
The government is pushing forward plans to extend the SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu, Asembo, Ugenya, and eventually towards Malaba.
This extension will significantly boost trade, transport, and connectivity for Kisumu and the greater Nyanza region.
2. Kisumu International Airport Upgrade
Kisumu Airport is set for a major facelift to enable direct exports of products like fish and horticultural goods to international markets.
This upgrade is expected to open up the region to global trade and tourism opportunities.
3. Koru-Soin Dam Construction
After years of delays, the construction of the Koru-Soin Dam is finally moving forward.
This dam will help control flooding in the Kano Plains and improve the water supply for surrounding communities.
4. Magwagwa Dam Development
The Magwagwa Dam project, benefiting both Kisumu and Kisii counties, is being revived to provide clean water for domestic use, support irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power.
5. Sondu Miriu Dam Support and Expansion
Beyond the existing Sondu Miriu Dam, new initiatives are being rolled out to enhance its capacity and boost electricity generation, addressing energy needs across Nyanza.
6. Rusinga Ring Road Completion
Work on the 19.34-kilometer Rusinga Ring Road, which was launched in August 2024, is on track for completion by July 2025.
This road will greatly improve access to beaches, fishing areas, and tourism spots around Rusinga Island.
7. Water Connectivity Across Kisumu County
The government has committed to ensuring that nearly every household in Kisumu County gains access to piped water, addressing a long-standing infrastructure gap that has affected development.
8. Revitalization of the Cotton and Sugar Industries
Once a thriving backbone of the local economy, the cotton and sugar industries are now set for revival.
Efforts are underway to support farmers, modernize factories, and bring back jobs that were lost due to the collapse of these sectors.
9. Mining Sector Reform in Nyanza
Nyanza’s rich mineral resources have often gone untapped or mismanaged.
New reforms aim to regulate mining activities, ensure fair benefit sharing with local communities, and unlock the region’s full potential.
10. Infrastructure and Economic Development Initiatives
Other projects, including roads, bridges, markets, and public facilities, are also being revived under a broader development plan.
The goal is to open up rural areas, ease transportation, and stimulate business growth across Nyanza.
The revival of these projects signals a new chapter for Kisumu and the wider Nyanza region.
As Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo emphasized, development should cut across all parts of the country, regardless of political affiliations.
If fully realized, these projects could change the economic landscape of Kisumu and Nyanza for generations to come.