RESIDENTS of Obumba village in Ombeyi ward, Muhoroni subcounty in Kisumu, have staged protests over the poor state of roads in the area, demanding immediate intervention from the county government.
They accused the authorities of neglect after the Kenya Rural Roads Authority abruptly terminated construction works on the Obumba–Yao–Orenge–Onyalobiro road before completion, without offering an explanation.
They called for urgent allocation of funds to upgrade feeder roads that fall under the county government within the ward to motorable standards, citing difficulties in accessing essential services.
George Otieno lamented that the Onyalobiro–Kasongo road has become impassable, crippling transport and trade.
“This road is impassable. That is why we are here to demand answers on why construction was abruptly halted,” he said.
The poor road conditions have also taken a toll on health services. Florence Wanyango, a community health promoter, said patients and expectant mothers faced life-threatening delays in reaching hospitals.
“We are suffering because of this road. Sick people die every day while being taken to hospital. Pregnant women give birth on the road because they cannot get to healthcare facilities in time,” she said.
Wanyango, who relies heavily on boda boda transport, said accidents were common due to the poor road.
“I once broke my leg in an accident here and now live with permanent scars. The road has ruined many lives,” she added.
Julius Omulo, a boda boda rider, expressed operators’ frustrations, saying their trade has suffered extensive losses from damaged motorcycles and rising fuel costs while plying the route.
“This road has never been safe. We have lost colleagues and passengers. Even our stage chairman died because of this road,” Omulo said.
The residents vowed to continue fighting for their rights until the county government addresses the stalled works and restores services.
