Kenyan Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has intensified infrastructural development in major urban centres a facelift.

KURA Director General Eng Silas Kinoti said building modern infrastructure in towns is a key enabler for all other economic activities to thrive. 

He was speaking during the official launch of the Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation (KLDC), held at the Kisumu Port on Tuesday.

Corporation was established as a special purpose vehicle to develop and manage the infrastructural and socio-economic activities as well as mobilise resources for lakefront development projects in Kisumu.

Kinoti noted that the launch marked a key step towards the realisation of improved infrastructure in the area, aimed at changing the lives of the dwellers.

Besides, such initiatives would help the country in realising aspirations outlined in Vision 2030 and the Big Four Agenda. 

“For the country to attain her targets on economic growth and sustain it, the urban centres must be well functioning,” he said, adding that, building of infrastructure is the most powerful tool in the creation of jobs and the playing field for all businesses.

According to the KURA boss, over 60 per cent of the population is projected to move to cities in the next few years, hence the need for intensive investments in urban infrastructure.

Transport hub

Furthermore, Kenyans dwelling in towns make a significant contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). 

About 80 per cent of Kenya’s GDP is generated in the urban centres. Kinoti applauded the county management for their effort in transforming Kisumu through the provision of better infrastructure, notably the beautiful cabro walkways that has eased public mobility.

Speaking at the same event, Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, reiterated that the various infrastructural development being witnessed in Kisumu was through the establishment of KLDC.

According to  Nyong’o, the desire to re-awaken Kisumu as a leading commercial, industrial and marine transport hub on Lake Victoria, serving Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi inspired the inception of the corporation. 

“This will help exploit the Blue Economy opportunities, enhance tourism, trade and attract investors,” said Nyong’o. —KNA