Cherargei flags transport inefficiencies at Malaba, demands govt action
By Faith Lagat, July 24, 2025Nandi County Senator Samson Cherargei has sounded the alarm over persistent transport inefficiencies at the Malaba border point, describing the facility as a critical but underperforming trade hub.
He called on the government to urgently address the bottlenecks affecting transport and logistics, warning that continued neglect undermines national revenue and regional integration.
Cherargei made the remarks during Thursday, July 23, 2025, Senate proceedings, ahead of the House’s planned sittings in Busia County under the “Mashinani” initiative.
Transport woes
“We need to conduct more oversight visits, and I’m glad that we will be visiting Busia. The Malaba border point is a critical hub, yet it’s disheartening to see frequent reports of inefficiencies, especially in the transport sector,” he said.
A 2021 report by TradeMark Africa cited poor road conditions, including a dilapidated 1-kilometre stretch near the crossing, as a major contributor to congestion and delays. The route handles more than 100 trucks daily, making it one of East Africa’s busiest land trade corridors.
While ongoing projects at the border, including gate expansion and bridge repair, aim to ease the pressure, Cherargei said these interventions are not enough. He urged both national and county governments to adopt long-term infrastructure and policy solutions that will support uninterrupted trade flows.
Backing equity
Cherargei also responded to concerns raised by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, assuring him of President William Ruto’s commitment to equitable development.
“I want to assure Hon. Okiya Omtatah that President Ruto’s leadership is grounded in the principle of broad-based development, equity, and equality. The President has acknowledged that the politics of marginalisation have long affected regions like Busia, while other parts of the country have seen greater development,” he said.
According to Cherargei, the government is determined to correct historical imbalances and will continue rolling out programs that promote inclusive growth across all counties.
Public awareness
The motion to hold Senate sittings in Busia, sponsored by Senator Boni Khalwale, received wide support. Senator Omtatah welcomed the move, noting it would help lawmakers connect with under-represented regions.
“I hope senators can visit and experience what this county has to offer. It will help them understand the impact that the politics of marginalisation has had on local communities,” he said.
However, Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian raised a deeper concern, pointing to public ignorance about the Senate’s role.
“There are parts of this country where people do not even understand the role of the Senate. Some leaders exploit that gap to mislead their constituents,” she said, urging increased civic education.