(WEST POKOT COUNTY) – Kenya-South Sudan Link Road Upgrade Aims to Boost Trade and Connectivity
Work is advancing on the Kenya-South Sudan Link Road in West Pokot County, a project designed to strengthen transport connections between Kenya and South Sudan. The programme, supported by the Government of Kenya and the African Development Bank (AfDB), is focused on building key infrastructure including culverts and bridges to improve drainage and road accessibility.
The project forms part of a larger regional initiative, the Kenya-South Sudan Road Corridor upgrading programme, covering the Lesseru-Kitale and Morpus-Lokichar sections in its first phase. The initiative is intended to enhance cross border mobility, reduce transport costs, and support local and regional trade.
Kenyan officials say the upgraded road will provide a reliable link between West Pokot and Turkana Counties to South Sudan, connecting to major transport corridors including the Northern Corridor through Kitale-Lodwar-Nadapal (AI) Road and the Kitale-Endebes-Suam-Kapchorwa Corridor.
The programme is expected to stimulate business and economic activities along the route, facilitating easier access to markets, goods, and services. The project aims to lower operational costs for transporters and traders by improving transport efficiency, and consequently benefiting local communities and small and medium enterprises.
| Section / Route | Key Features | Purpose / Impact | Approx. Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lesseru–Kitale | Upgrading road surface, culverts, and bridges | Improve transport flow, reduce travel time | 65 km | Connects West Pokot to Kitale, part of Northern Corridor link |
| Morpus–Lokichar | Road paving, drainage works, bridges | Enhance access to South Sudan, support trade | 120 km | Links Turkana to South Sudan border |
| Kitale–Lodwar–Nadapal (AI) | Key connecting corridor | Integrates local roads to international trade routes | 280 km | Main trade route to South Sudan and Uganda |
| Kitale–Endebes–Suam–Kapchorwa | Regional connector | Improves cross-border transport, links markets | 200 km | Supports EAC regional integration |
| Infrastructure elements | Culverts, bridges, drainage systems | Ensure year-round accessibility, reduce road damage | N/A | Designed to handle seasonal rains and heavy vehicles |
| Economic impact | Reduced transport costs, faster trade, local business growth | Boosts cross-border commerce, supports regional economy | N/A | Expected to attract investment and create jobs |
Longer term, the Turkana-South Sudan Link Road is seen as a strategic route for regional integration, supporting Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan’s alignment with East African Community (EAC) development goals.
Local traders have note that infrastructure improvements of this scale can attract investment, create employment opportunities and strengthen economic ties across borders.
Current work progress has focused on constructing bridges and culverts to ensure the road remains functional throughout the year, including the rainy season. Contractors are working under tight schedules to complete the first phase efficiently, with local authorities coordinating with community stakeholders to minimise disruptions.
The total cost of the project has not been officially disclosed. However, similar AfDB supported regional road projects typically run into trillions of South Sudanese Pounds (SSP). For context, $1 is currently equivalent to 7,100 SSP.
Local businesses and traders have welcomed the project, noting that improved road connectivity is expected to make cross border trade faster and safer. Transporters say reduced travel time could lower fuel costs and vehicle wear, making goods cheaper for consumers.