The County Government of Siaya is nearing completion of a major road upgrade project expected to transform the lakeside town into a vibrant fisheries and blue economy hub.
The 1.512-kilometre road network at Usenge Market in Bondo Sub-County is scheduled for handover on June 26 after months of phased construction aimed at improving transport, market access and safety within the busy fishing centre.
Governor James Orengo’s administration says the project is part of a wider plan to open up the fisherfolk region through improved infrastructure and stronger links between road and lake transport.
Chief Officer for Public Works Eng. Kevin Ajuul led a technical inspection of the ongoing works covering Alignments 1 to 5 in West Yimbo Ward.
For years, poor roads in Usenge slowed movement of fish and goods, exposing traders to heavy post-harvest losses due to transport delays. The new bitumen-standard roads are expected to ease mobility, improve safety and strengthen the fisheries value chain along Lake Victoria.
The project includes pedestrian walkways, improved drainage, designated boda boda stages and trader sheds to reduce congestion and improve order within the market.
County officials say the road works complement the ongoing development of the Usenge Beach Pier under the county’s blue economy agenda, positioning the area as a key lakeside trade and transport corridor.
Residents have welcomed the project, saying it has already improved movement and addressed long-standing drainage problems that made roads impassable during rainy seasons.
Eng. Ajuul said community participation through the Community Implementation Team had strengthened transparency and helped maintain quality standards during construction.
The Chairman of the Usenge Beach Management Unit said integrating the roads with the expanding beach and pier infrastructure would improve market access and boost incomes for fisherfolk and traders.
Once complete, the project is expected to mark a major milestone in efforts to modernize West Yimbo Ward and unlock economic growth anchored on fishing, transport and trade.
Source: R. Kanyandong, Directorate of Public Communication, CGS
