The historic LungaLunga town, located at the Kenya-Tanzania border, is experiencing major development as the Kwale County Government rolls out key infrastructure projects aimed at boosting trade and improving residents’ livelihood.
This comes following the gazettment of LungaLunga as a municipality by Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, marking a new chapter for the border town.
The county has since embarked on upgrading roads, improving drainage systems, installing streetlights, and renovating the local market.
“Our goal is to unlock the economic potential of Lungalunga and make it a model border town that supports trade, investment, and community livelihoods. By improving infrastructure, we are not only enhancing mobility but also creating an environment where businesses can thrive,” Governor Achani said.
Residents and traders led by Nicodemus Kioko say that the improvements have made a significant difference, recalling how poor roads and floods used to block access to schools and businesses.
“Before this road was constructed, children couldn’t go to school when the river overflowed. The roads were muddy and impassable,” he said.
With better infrastructure, businesses in Lungalunga town now operate day and night, even during the rainy season.
“Streetlights have allowed us to work longer hours. Even small-scale traders are benefitting,” said trader Juma Kalimbo.
The county has also empowered local women by awarding cleaning contracts, such as Kudzecha Women Limited, who have been hired to maintain cleanliness in the market and unclog drains along the Lungalunga town.
“After forming our company, we got a tender from the county to clean the market. We’re happy to play a role in keeping our town clean,” said Mercy Kinago.
Lungalunga Municipality Manager Grace Mbeyu noted that improved roads and sanitation have encouraged more cross-border trade with Tanzania.
“Before, transporting goods across the border was difficult. Now, it’s faster and easier. Cleanliness and order are attracting more business,” she said.
With support from both the county government and the community, LungaLunga is on a steady path to becoming a vibrant trade and investment hub along the Kenya-Tanzania border.
