Earlier this week President Uhuru Kenyatta commissioned the Kisumu Railway Station that seeks to unlock the economic potential of the lake region and the entire East Africa Community bloc.
The president expressed optimism that rail transport will boost Kisumu’s status as an economic hub in the western region.
“This newly refurbished Kisumu railway line will unlock the potential of western region as well as connecting the EAC trade bloc. Because of this rail, the cost of travelling from Mombasa to Kisumu will reduce. Also the cost of transporting goods from Mombasa to Kisumu will reduce and that is of benefit to the people,” said President Kenyatta.
Kenyatta who was on a two-day working visit in the lakeside city pointed out that the restoration of the rail transport in Kisumu will not only lower the cost of ferrying goods along the line but also stimulate the growth of industries that will create the much-needed jobs for the youth.
The President emphasized the importance of infrastructure in accelerating development, boosting economic growth and improving the lives of Kenyans.
Noting that the country could not have made significant progress in infrastructure development and other sectors of the economy without peace, President Kenyatta urged Kenyans to vote for peace-loving leaders in the coming general election.
While still in the Lake City of Kisumu the Head of State called on Kisumu residents to come out in large numbers and vote for Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Alliance presidential candidate Raila Odinga and his running mate Martha Karua who stand for peace and national unity.
“We want our country to continue being peaceful. There are two paths one can take. One is to divide Kenyans, peddle lies, plant the seed of hatred and insult others. That path leads to destruction, poverty and bloodshed. I do not think that is the path we want to follow.
“There is another path. This is the path of peace, ensuring justice for all, standing for the truth and uniting all Kenyans. That route ensures respect, progress and national unity. That is the path we should follow,” Kenyatta said.
National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Ukur Yatan said the commissioning of the new Kisumu Station, which is part of the 217 KM Nakuru – Kisumu railway rehabilitation project, is a game changer in reviving the western region’s economy.
“Wherever you go in any part of this country, you see new premier facilities and new road network that have gone hand-in-hand in enhancing development in this country which have created opportunities for our young people,” CS Yatani said.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, who also spoke at the event, thanked President Kenyatta for supporting the infrastructure development in his county as witnessed in the last nine years.
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Later, President Kenyatta officially opened the Dada Export Processing Zone Limited, a garment manufacturing factory for the export market that will create hundreds of jobs for Kisumu residents.
