It’s all systems go for Thursday launch of Kes3billion revamped Kisumu port

Engineers are putting final touches to the revamped Kisumu Port set for official launch Thursday.

Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni, Tanzania’s Pombe Magufuli and Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo are expected to open the port upgraded at a cost of Sh3 billion.

The port which had been closed a few months ago to pave way for its upgrade is expected to increase regional oil trade upon its completion to change the fortunes of livelihoods along that bloc with the State further considering an extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha or revival of the old metre-gauge railway.

The last few days have seen contractors repair roads and pathways leading to and out of the port and as well giving fresh paints and repairing broken walls and tiled floors with a good number working twenty four hours, after the flood lights were installed. Security has also been beefed up in and all around.

The revival of the port after decades of a lull is expected to stimulate economic growth in the lakeside city, create more work and employment opportunities.

Uhuru and Raila have made discreet visits to the port on two occasions to inspect the ongoing works, with the President demanding speedy completion of the rehabilitation.