Simplified Technical Report: Dhogoye Bridge Construction Advances to Link Siaya and Busia Counties

The Dhogoye Bridge is under construction in Usenge, Siaya County. It forms part of the Bondo–Usenge–Osieko corridor and aims to provide a reliable link between Siaya and Busia counties.

The structure crosses a waterway connected to Lake Victoria, where water levels often rise and flood low-lying areas.

Dhogoye Bridge progress aerial view /Handout

For years, the previous crossing point was submerged during high water periods. This cut off access to markets, schools, and health facilities for communities on both sides.

The new bridge is designed as an all-weather crossing to solve these disruptions and support the movement of people and goods in the region.

Construction on the project began in 2021. Work faced a prolonged stall after the initial start, but resumed and has proceeded without interruption for the past four months. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is responsible for delivering the project.

Dhogoye Bridge steel girders aerial view /Handout

Steel plate girders, which are large beams made from welded steel plates designed to carry heavy loads, are now being installed across multiple spans. These girders rest on concrete piers and abutments. Piers are vertical supports placed in the water, while abutments are the end supports on land.

Shear studs installation at Dhogoye Bridge /Handout

The top surfaces of the girders, known as flanges, carry rows of headed shear studs. These are short metal pins welded in place to connect the steel firmly to the concrete. This setup creates a composite action, where the steel beams and concrete slab function together as one strong unit to handle traffic loads once complete.

The concrete deck slab is the next major element planned for the bridge. This slab will form the main driving surface and will be poured directly on top of the installed girders.

Preparations for the deck include positioning reinforcement bars and formwork elements. Formwork consists of temporary molds that shape and hold wet concrete until it sets. Temporary scaffolding supports ongoing adjustments at pier locations.

Dhogoye Bridge ongoing works /Handout

The full bridge alignment stretches over the water with several piers already in the channel holding up the steel spans. At connection points, rebar cages, which are grids of steel bars that add strength to concrete, extend from the substructure. Girder alignment is underway at key piers with concrete pier caps, the flat tops of the supports, in place beneath the steelwork.

Dhogoye bridge pier caps /Handout

After the deck concrete is cast and properly cured, the next stage will involve laying an asphalt topping. This wearing course provides a smooth, even riding surface for vehicles. Parapets, which are the raised side barriers for safety, along with other finishes such as drainage systems, guardrails, and road markings, will complete the bridge before it opens to traffic.

When finished, the bridge will provide a permanent all-weather crossing. It is expected to ease the movement of people and goods and support regional trade between the Siaya and Busia communities.

Dhogoye Bridge aerial view /Handout

The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has helped coordinate between agencies, local leaders, and residents to keep the site active.

Current works focus on the steel superstructure and preparation for the deck. Activity is evident at several points along the bridge alignment.

Further progress will depend on the continued supply of materials and favourable site conditions. This phase of construction shows steady advancement on the long-awaited infrastructure link.