President Uhuru Kenyatta commissioned the Kisumu Railway Station, expressing optimism that the rail transport will boost Kisumu’s status as an economic hub in the western region.
President Kenyatta pointed out that the restoration of 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 much-needed jobs for the youth.
“Because of this rail, the cost of traveling 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 Kenyatta who is on a two-day working visit to the lakeside city.
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.
In this regard, the Head of State called on Kisumu residents to come out in large numbers and vote for Azimio One Kenya Alliance led by 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,” the President 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.
The CS said when the history of Kenya is written, the name of President Kenyatta will feature prominently for his focus on infrastructure development in the country.
“…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,” 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.
Later, 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.