For years, motorists, boda boda riders, traders and farmers using the Matungu–Ratego–River Suo–Nasianda Road have had to contend with potholes and difficult journeys that have slowed movement and made the transportation of goods a challenge.
But there is renewed hope that the situation could soon change following an inspection of the road by Matungu MP Hon. Peter Oscar Nabulindo, who says the project is expected to transform transport and open up new economic opportunities in the constituency.
The road, estimated to cost approximately Sh700 million, is expected to take about two years to complete. Once finished, it will improve connectivity, ease the movement of goods and people, and provide residents with a shorter route to Bungoma.
For local residents, the anticipated upgrade is more than a construction project. It is a promise of easier journeys, better access to markets and an opportunity for businesses to grow.
Boda boda operators, who depend on the road daily to earn a living, have welcomed the development, saying its poor condition has for years made their work difficult.
The Matungu boda boda chairperson hailed Nabulindo for taking an interest in the challenges facing residents, noting that a better road would ease movement, reduce transport difficulties and make it easier for riders to serve their customers.
The Matungu market chairperson also welcomed the project, saying improved road access would benefit traders by making it easier to transport farm produce and other goods to the market.
The chairperson said better connectivity could attract more customers, boost business and improve the livelihoods of families who depend on trade.
Both leaders praised the MP for prioritising a project they believe will have a direct impact on the everyday lives of Matungu residents.
Nabulindo points to other development projects
During the inspection, Nabulindo also highlighted other national government projects he said were aimed at improving education, skills development and business opportunities in Matungu.
They include a students’ hostel at Khalaba KMTC, a Technical Training Institute at Namberekeya and a new market in Matungu, which he said would soon be launched.
The MP said the projects were part of ongoing efforts to support the national government’s development agenda under President William Samoei Ruto.
He maintained that investment in roads, education facilities and markets would help bring essential services closer to the people while creating opportunities for young people, traders and local communities.
MP wants Matungu residents to occupy Funyula housing units
Nabulindo also took issue with residents of Funyula over what he described as a lack of enthusiasm in embracing affordable housing units constructed in the area.
He said he would encourage residents of Matungu to take up the houses, arguing that the investment should benefit families looking for decent and affordable homes.
His remarks highlighted the need to connect government housing projects with people willing and able to occupy the completed units.
‘Don’t rush to sell your land’
The MP also cautioned residents against selling their land prematurely before the road is completed.
He urged landowners to think carefully about the long-term value of their property, noting that improved transport infrastructure could attract businesses and investment to the area.
According to Nabulindo, the road could spur economic growth by making it easier for farmers to reach markets, traders to move goods and residents to access essential services.
For many families along the route, the prospect of a smoother journey and reduced transport challenges is welcome news after years of dealing with pothole-ridden roads.
The real test, however, will be completing the project within the projected two-year period and ensuring that the promised improvements translate into tangible benefits for the people of Matungu.
