Kericho: Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai has assured residents that the proposed Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) logistics hub in Cheplanget Ward will remain at the designated site at Tiritab Moita, dismissing reports of a possible change of location and stating that construction is expected to begin within the next two weeks.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Mutai addressed area residents at Tiritab Moita centre in Cheplanget Ward, Bureti Sub County, and affirmed that the facility, which will occupy 65 acres, will be constructed at the site without relocating the SGR station. He highlighted that the SGR Logistics hub is expected to become a major centre for the movement of goods and stimulate economic activity in Kericho and the wider region.
The Governor revealed that during a meeting with the Managing Director of the Kenya Railways Corporation, Mr. Philip Mainga, it was agreed the facility would be officially named Tiritab Moita, replacing the earlier reference to it as the Kericho substation. Dr. Mutai emphasized that naming the station was intended to give the local community a sense of ownership while underscoring the project’s importance to the county’s economic development.
He also mentioned that the SGR line would pass through Kapsorok in Soin Sub County, where an industrial park is being developed, creating a link between the railway network, industrial production, and markets. Additionally, Dr. Mutai announced that another railway station initially marked as Igonge on project maps would be named Ngoina Station, noting it is located within Kericho County.
Dr. Mutai remarked on the significance of the project for Cheplanget Ward, a previously marginalized area, noting that the choice of this station would elevate its prominence and boost the regional economy. The assurances come as preparations for the Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba SGR extension gather momentum, with the railway project being part of the planned western Kenya SGR network.
The extension is expected to strengthen the movement of agricultural produce and manufactured goods, while supporting industrialisation and trade along the corridor. Kericho County’s development plans recognize transport and trade as key contributors to the local economy, with industrial activity expanding in parts of the county.
Dr. Mutai expressed gratitude to President William Ruto, the Ministry of Roads and Transport, and Kenya Railways management for their commitment to the project, emphasizing the planned logistics hub’s potential benefits for residents and businesses. He reassured residents that the government’s plans were firm and the designated site would not be changed.
The Governor urged residents to disregard relocation rumours and called upon local leaders to cooperate with the contractor to ensure the project is implemented smoothly. The development comes as the government advances the SGR extension towards western Kenya, aiming to improve regional connectivity and facilitate trade.
With the site and names of key stations now confirmed locally, attention is expected to shift to the commencement of construction, ensuring the promised logistics and industrial facilities unlock the economic potential of Kericho and the western region.
