This archive report was first published on 28 June 2021.
On June 28, 2021, the standard gauge railway (SGR) in Kenya faced intense scrutiny, with many questioning its purpose and returns on investment. However, history has shown that mega projects can be a catalyst for growth and development, as seen in the case of the Lunatic Express, a railway line built from Mombasa to Kisumu in the late 19th century.
Initially, the Lunatic Express was met with skepticism and ridicule, with critics labeling it a 'gigantic folly' with no purpose. However, as the railway line progressed, it began to transform the region, enabling the transportation of agricultural produce and other goods, creating small businesses, and easing movement of people and goods.
Fast-forward to the present, and the same kind of hostility is being directed at the SGR. However, as the Lunatic Express showed, development is a complex concept that cannot be reduced to simple equations or short-term gains. It encompasses trade, ease of movement, access to services, and more.
While it is true that the SGR has been criticized for its high cost and perceived lack of returns, the real issue is not the mega project itself, but rather the corruption and mismanagement that often accompany such projects. The billions of dollars spent on the SGR have raised concerns about the involvement of cartels and government officials in the project.
It is essential to distinguish between mega projects that spur growth and development and those that are mere white elephants. No country can grow without investment in infrastructure, and countries like China have shown that huge infrastructure projects can be a catalyst for poverty reduction and economic growth.
Therefore, instead of focusing on the debt ceiling and public debt, we should be concerned about corruption and the misuse of funds. By addressing these issues, we can ensure that our investments in infrastructure are used prudently and effectively to drive growth and development.
Tee Ngugi is a Nairobi-based political commentator.
