Siaya: A number of infrastructure projects under the National government that had stalled in Siaya due to funding challenges are now back on track, with contractors directed to fast-track their completion. Speaking in Usenge, Acting County Commissioner Robert Ng’etich reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the projects are delivered within schedule, noting that security agencies will work closely with contractors to address any security challenges that may disrupt the works.

According to Kenya News Agency, Ng’etich made the remarks during a visit by the Government Delivery Unit secretariat to Dhogoye bridge, a key crossing point linking Siaya and Busia counties. The bridge, currently under construction, is at 40 percent completion and is expected to be finalised by April 2026. Once completed, it will provide a safe and reliable passageway for residents, traders, and travelers who have for years grappled with flooding challenges along the route rendering it impassable.

The project, which commenced in June 2021, has suffered repeated delays. Major works resumed in August 2024 after earlier stalling but ground to a halt again following delays in payments. However, during the tour, the contractor reassured the Delivery Unit secretariat that this time around, all necessary materials are already on site and no major hindrances to completion are anticipated.

He explained that the initial slow progress was due to difficult subterranean conditions, including hard rocks at the construction site, which made foundation works complex and time-consuming. “Now that the hardest phase of dealing with underground rock formations is almost behind us, we are confident that the rest of the construction will proceed more smoothly,” the contractor said.

Residents of Usenge have welcomed the renewed focus on completing the Dhogoye bridge, expressing hope that it will finally put an end to perennial flooding challenges that cut off transport and trade across the two counties during rainy seasons. The government has promised continuous monitoring through the Delivery Unit to ensure accountability and timely delivery of the bridge and other stalled projects across the County such as the Bondo-Linda Road.