The government, through Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), admitted that it was yet to construct a tarmac road in Mfangano Island in Migori County.
Addressing a concern raised by a resident from the area, the Authority announced on Tuesday that it would soon start paving roads in the region.
“It is true. Currently, the Island has no single paved road. However, for now, we are improving to Gravel Standards as we plan for future road works that will include paving,” KURA allayed the fears of residents.
This was part of the government’s plan to increase connectivity in the area, which is a big tourist destination.
“KURA has embarked on upgrading 53 kilometres of road network to Gravel standards and improvement of drainage works,” a statement from the government entity read in part.
The Authority added that not only will the roads boost the island's economic status by opening it up to development, but they will also enable residents to travel with ease.
KURA launched the road upgrade to gravel standards in July 2023, but only 10 per cent of the work has been completed.
Despite the slow start, KURA is optimistic that the upgrading will be completed by July 2024.
Upgrading of roads in Mfangano Island in Mbita Constituency comes amid allegations that the government excluded the Nyanza region from infrastructural development in the financial year 2023/24.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) was accused of neglecting the Nyanza region in its nationwide upgrade of roads.
On August 15, KeNHA listed 165 roadworks to be undertaken across the country except Nyanza for the 1st and 2nd quarters of the 2023-24 Financial Year.
In its defence, KeNHA explained that Nyanza was not listed due to ongoing projects in the region.
