Construction is ongoing on the Kenya-South Sudan Link Road in West Pokot County, a strategic project aimed at enhancing regional trade and connectivity. The initiative, spearheaded jointly by the Government of Kenya and the African Development Bank (AfDB), involves the construction of culverts, bridges, and upgraded roadways to ensure accessibility and efficient transport. Once completed, the road will link West Pokot and Turkana counties with South Sudan, connecting to major corridors such as the Northern Corridor and the Kitale-Endebes-Suam-Kapchorwa route.
The programme forms part of the broader Kenya-South Sudan Road Corridor project, including the Lesseru-Kitale and Morpus-Lokichar road upgrades. Officials say the project is expected to reduce transportation costs, improve access to markets, and stimulate economic activity for local businesses and communities along the route. By facilitating cross-border trade, the road is seen as a key driver for regional integration and development under the East African Community (EAC) framework. Local labor and contractors have been engaged, ensuring that the project also delivers short-term employment and skill-building opportunities for residents.
Residents and business leaders have welcomed the project, noting its potential to transform the local economy. This road will open up trade opportunities for our farmers and traders who previously struggled to access South Sudan markets, said a local business owner in Kitale. Experts predict that once the Link Road is fully operational, it will attract investment, enhance the flow of goods and services, and support broader government objectives for infrastructure-led growth in northern Kenya. Communities along the corridor are optimistic that the project will also improve access to essential services such as healthcare and education.