By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 6 January 2026 - A major rural road project is emerging in Migori County, and for residents of Kuria East, it is shaping up as more than just another government promise.
The planned upgrading of the Taranganya–Ntimaru–Gwikonge–Gokeharaka–Nyamtiro OSBP–Kegonga–Loliondo (B1) Junction road is increasingly being seen as a potential turning point for trade, mobility and local confidence in public investment.
The project, to be implemented by the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), covers Phase 1 in Migori County and Phase 2 in Narok County.
Phase 1 alone stretches about 64.5 kilometres across Kuria East Constituency, cutting through areas that are productive in agriculture but poorly served by infrastructure.
Once completed, the road will be upgraded from earth and gravel to full bitumen standards, at an estimated total cost of about KSh 4.81 billion.
For years, this corridor has been known more for its challenges than its opportunities. During the rainy season, large sections become muddy and impassable.
Farmers struggle to transport maize, livestock and other produce to markets, while traders face high costs and delays.
Access to services such as schools, hospitals and border points like Nyamtiro One Stop Border Post has remained unreliable.
Kuria East MP Marwa Kitayama says this is exactly what the project is meant to change.
“This road passes through very fertile areas in Kuria East, but poor roads have kept our people poor,” Kitayama said.
“When it rains, farmers cannot move their produce, and traders lose money.
He thanked president William Ruto for the intervention to see the project succeed, saying they owe him a debt of gratitude.
"For us we are giving credit where due. This is because a proper tarmac road will change daily life for thousands of families.” said the MP.
More from Kenya
The road’s design reflects lessons learned from years of flood damage and erosion. KeRRA plans include improved sub-grade works, cement-stabilised base layers, asphalt surfacing, and the construction of box culverts and bridges at key points.
Two 60-metre span bridges and several culverts are planned to deal with overflow during heavy rains, especially in low-lying areas such as Nyaroha.
Importantly, project documents indicate there are no known land disputes or relocation issues along the route. In Kenya, where infrastructure projects are often delayed by compensation claims and court cases, this gives the road a strong advantage before construction even begins.
Beyond engineering, the road has wider economic and political meaning. It links Migori County to Narok County and connects local roads to the B1 junction at Loliondo, strengthening movement between western Kenya and northern Tanzania. This makes the road not just a local access route, but a regional trade link.
Kitayama believes the impact will be felt quickly if the project is delivered as planned.
“Good roads bring business,” the legislator said.
“Transport costs go down, markets open up, and young people find new opportunities. This road will connect Kuria East to the rest of the country in a serious way.”
Still, the project comes with high expectations. With a multi-billion-shilling budget and detailed technical requirements, delivery will be closely watched by residents and leaders alike. Delays, poor workmanship or cost overruns could easily turn hope into frustration.
For KeRRA, the road fits squarely within its mission of “connecting devolved Kenya.” For Migori County, it represents a test of whether national agencies and local leadership can work together to deliver visible, lasting development.
As machinery prepares to move in and plans move from paper to ground, the Taranganya–Ntimaru–Gokeharaka road is becoming a symbol. If successful, it could unlock Kuria East’s agricultural potential and restore faith in public infrastructure. If it stalls, it will join a long list of projects that promised much but changed little.
A Major Road Project Emerging in Migori County Raises Hopes in Kuria East
Kuria East MP Hails President Ruto as Major Road Upgrading Gains Momentum
