The Kitale–Lodwar–Juba highway has been completely cut-off due to heavy rains, disrupting trade between Kenya and South Sudan. Traders transporting goods are facing significant delays and losses as the road remains impassable. The situation has led to a scarcity of food in Turkana County and increased security risks from bandits.
With the closure of the main route, traders are now forced to take longer routes through Uganda, incurring additional costs and risking spoilage of perishable goods. The business community is urging the Kenyan government to expedite repairs to restore normal traffic flow and prevent further economic losses.
The Kenya National Highways Authority has begun repair works and provided alternative routes to ease the traffic congestion. Despite the challenges, stakeholders remain hopeful that the road will be reopened soon, allowing businesses to resume operations and boost cross-border trade.