Siaya County’s long-awaited road project in Kathieno C sub-location, Ugenya East, has raised serious concerns among residents, as the ambitious 10-kilometre road remains incomplete nearly three years after its launch in 2022.
Vivaca International Limited, the company reportedly awarded the tender by the Siaya County Government, has only managed to complete a fraction of the work, sparking frustration among the community.
While the initial excavation was started in 2022, only a quarter of the total project has been completed, with the last excavation occurring in July 2023. Since then, no further work has been carried out, leaving a large portion of the road untouched and impassable.
Kathieno C sub-location, one of the most fertile areas in East Ugenya, heavily relies on efficient road networks for agricultural activities. Known for its high sugarcane production and thriving cereal farming, the community has felt the adverse effects of this poor infrastructure.
The stalled road construction has led to difficulties in transporting agricultural produce, resulting in losses for local farmers and limiting access to markets.
As the county’s residents continue to face these challenges, questions are being raised about the tendering process and the accountability of the county leadership.
It has emerged that Vivaca International Limited, the contractor behind the project, is allegedly linked to Governor James Orengo’s in-law, sparking concerns about potential conflicts of interest and favouritism in the awarding of contracts.
Further complicating the situation, George Odhiambo Nying’iro, the Siaya County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Public Works, Roads, Energy, and Transport, has come under fire for failing to ensure the timely completion of the project.
Despite overseeing the roads department, Nying’iro has yet to provide any tangible explanation for the delay or address the growing frustrations of the local community.
Residents are now calling for immediate intervention from the county government.
They demand that Governor Orengo and CECM Nying’iro take responsibility for the failed project and either ensure its swift completion or reassign the contract to a more reliable contractor who can meet the agreed deadlines.
The community has made it clear that the current situation is untenable, and they are desperate for leadership that will prioritize their development needs.
Below are some photos of the dilapidated roads.
