Road construction on the Sindo-Magunga-Sori route has resumed following months of delays and public protests that highlighted the severe impact of poor road infrastructure on the local community. Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed that contractors had returned to work, signaling renewed progress on the long-stalled project.
The road, which stretches 74 kilometers from Mbita to Sori, has been a critical route for residents, traders, and commuters in the greater Suba region. Its deterioration over time caused significant hardship, leading to increased transportation costs and vehicle maintenance expenses. The interruption of construction for several months created frustration among locals who rely on the road for daily economic activities.
In a recent inspection of ongoing works in several key areas including Sindo, Dhok Mit, Nyangwete, and Rangwe, the Cabinet Secretary emphasized the anticipated economic benefits that the completion of this road will bring. He highlighted that finishing the Mbita-Sindo-Magunga-Sori section alongside other connecting roads such as Kadel-Kandiege-Nyangwete-Pala-Kanyadhiang and Oboke-Rangwe would unlock significant economic potential in Suba, Rachuonyo North, and Rangwe sub-counties.
The delays in construction have been largely attributed to funding gaps and political disagreements among local leaders, who have been caught up in disputes over responsibility for road maintenance. This has only worsened the plight of residents who depend on the route, especially traders transporting goods whose costs have soared due to the poor road conditions.
The seriousness of the situation was brought to the forefront during a protest in late April when residents in Sindo blocked the road and planted banana stems as a symbolic gesture to draw attention to their grievances. This action effectively paralyzed transport in the area and highlighted how the bad road infrastructure was not only a matter of inconvenience but also a barrier to economic growth and daily survival.
One of the most challenging sections of the route, the Agolomuok-Laknyiero-Kiabuya stretch, is set to be tackled in the third phase of the project. Suba South’s Member of Parliament expressed optimism about the progress, noting that work by China Civil Engineering Construction Company has already resumed on the second milestone between Kigoto and Olando.
With the rainy season underway, the poor state of roads has caused transport costs to spike further, with some vehicles unable to operate at all. This seasonal challenge underscores the urgency for timely completion of the construction milestones.
The road will be constructed in phases, with each milestone covering approximately 7.4 kilometers. While this phased approach means residents will have to wait longer for the full project to be completed, the resumption of work is a welcome relief and a critical step toward improving connectivity in the region.
In addition to the roadwork on the outskirts, several roads in Homa Bay town have also seen improvements ahead of the upcoming Madaraka Day celebrations scheduled for June 1. The county government has been preparing the area to host the national event, with upgrades to key access routes, including those leading to the Raila Odinga Stadium, which will host the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations.
The focus on infrastructure development in the region reflects a broader push to boost economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents. Improved roads are expected to facilitate trade, reduce transportation costs, and open up new opportunities for investment and development.
The renewed momentum on the Sindo-Magunga-Sori road project signals a positive shift toward addressing the infrastructure deficits that have long hindered the region’s progress. With continued commitment from the government and cooperation from local stakeholders, the community can look forward to a future where reliable roads support economic transformation and social wellbeing.
