Kenya has entered negotiations with the World Bank to secure support for major transport upgrades, including the redevelopment of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to Malaba, and the construction of the Sh70 billion Lake Victoria Ring Road.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed on Tuesday that his ministry had opened a consultative session with the World Bank to explore financing options for the projects.

He explained that budget constraints had slowed the government’s modernisation plans for JKIA, making external support critical.

“These investments could significantly enhance tourism, trade, and regional integration by facilitating efficient cross-border movement of goods and passengers,” Chirchir stated.

He added that the discussions revolved around identifying viable financing models for the transport sector, which he described as central to social and economic progress.

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The government has previously considered Public-Private Partnerships to fund such projects, though plans were shaken last year when the proposed Adani deal for JKIA’s upgrade was cancelled.

The World Bank team, led by Binyam Reja, Practice Manager for Transport for the Eastern and Southern Africa region, expressed strong interest in Kenya’s SGR expansion.

Extending the line to Malaba has been a long-standing priority for the government, which has been canvassing global financiers to secure the necessary funds.

Attention also turned to the Lake Victoria Ring Road, a 180-kilometre highway that will cut through Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay and Migori counties.

According to the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the project will cost Sh70 billion and is designed to reshape Western Kenya’s transport and economic landscape.

The planned road will feature a seven-metre-wide carriageway with two-metre-wide shoulders to accommodate non-motorised transport in rural stretches.

In more urbanised centres, KeNHA has incorporated footpaths, lined drains, and other non-motorised transport facilities into the design. Construction is earmarked for the coming financial year.

Chirchir said the government believes the combined projects, from rural road expansion to international gateways, will strengthen Kenya’s standing as a hub for trade, tourism, and investment across the region.