For decades, communities living along the Bondo–Usenge–Osieko corridor have endured repeated disruptions caused by the rising waters of Lake Victoria, which frequently submerge crossing points and sever vital transport links. That long-standing hardship, however, is now nearing an end as the government fast-tracks the construction of the Dhogoye Bridge in Usenge, Siaya County.
The seasonal flooding has for years cut off access to markets, schools, health facilities and other essential services, leaving residents in parts of Siaya and Busia counties isolated and hampering economic activities.
Principal Secretary for the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, said the government remains committed to investing in critical transport infrastructure to enhance connectivity, unlock trade opportunities and spur economic growth across the country.
He noted that the ongoing construction of the Dhogoye Bridge, being implemented by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), is restoring a crucial transport link between Siaya and Busia counties.
“The ongoing construction of the Dhogoye Bridge in Usenge, Siaya County, is a strategic project by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) that is restoring a vital link between Siaya and Busia counties,” said Dr Omollo.
Speaking on the progress of the project, the PS said construction has proceeded seamlessly over the past four months after the project, which had stalled in 2021, was revived by the government.
He said the bridge will provide an all-weather crossing once completed, significantly easing the movement of people and goods while boosting regional trade and strengthening social and economic integration among communities living on both sides of the Lake Victoria basin.
“Following a prolonged stall after works commenced in 2021, the project was revived and construction has proceeded uninterrupted over the last four months, registering notable progress on site. Once completed, the bridge will provide an all-weather crossing, ease the movement of people and goods, enhance regional trade and deepen social and economic integration between communities on both sides of the lake basin,” he said.
Dr Omollo further noted that the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has played a pivotal role in sustaining the project’s momentum by fostering collaboration among government agencies, local leaders and communities.
According to the PS, the department has helped resolve operational challenges while ensuring a conducive environment for the uninterrupted implementation of the long-awaited infrastructure project, which is expected to transform transport, trade and livelihoods in the Lake Victoria region.
