Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya made a working tour aimed at checking on progress of work at the ongoing construction of One Stop Border Post (OSBP) at Suam on the border between Kenya and Uganda.
The Governor raised concern over the pace of work, owing to the fact that the OSBP had initially been projected to be complete and operational in 2021.
“We are however optimistic the underlying bottlenecks, especially the land for expansion challenge, would be addressed and pave way for its completion,” Natembeya assured area locals who expressed frustrations over the project, which once complete would unlock potential business opportunities.
Natembeya disclosed ongoing negotiations between the national and county governments aimed at allocating about 100 acres of land to the OSBP project, specifically for construction of a modern trading centre.
“The project already has 21 acres. However, this is not adequate for the envisaged trading complex,” noted Natembeya.
He hailed the African Development Bank (AFDB) and national government funded project, saying besides creating numerous business opportunities for the locals and boosting the devolved unit’s revenue collection, the project would enhance cross-border trading ties between Kenya, Uganda and Southern Sudan.
The County boss appreciated the national government’s decision to upgrade Kitale-Suam road to international standards as well as construction of Suam OSBP.
According to the Governor, the two projects would heavily spur economic growth and development in Trans Nzoia County.
The AFDB has pumped a total of Sh.4.5 billion in Kitale-Suam highway with a further Sh100 million toward the OSBP.
Once completed, the Sh.100 million project will house customs, immigration and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), security offices, including a modern market centre.
The Governor was accompanied by his Deputy Philomena Kapkory, County Secretary Truphosa Amere, CECMs Patrick Gacheru (Water and Environment), Samson Ojwang (Public Service Management), Bonface Wanyonyi (Finance and Economic Planning), Pepela Wanjala(Health), Phanice Khatundi (Agriculture), Chanelle Kittony (Youths and Sports).
By Maurice Aluda
