The U.S.-based infrastructure investment manager Everstrong Capital recently signed a project development agreement with the Kenyan government for the planned $3.6-billion Usahihi Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway project that would link the country’s capital of Nairobi to the Indian Ocean city of Mombasa. This landmark project aims to significantly enhance the country’s transportation network and catalyze economic growth.
Impact on Economy: Boosting Local and National Economies
The Usahihi Expressway is expected to play a role in driving growth. This 440 kilometer expressway, developed in partnership with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) will enhance the movement of goods and people leading to transportation. By reducing travel time between Nairobi and Mombasa from ten hours to four hours it will enhance productivity and efficiency.
Expressway will generate job opportunities during both its construction phase and operation phase. Additionally, KeNHA plans to establish three zones along the expressway route that will integrate business opportunities with the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and local communities. These economic zones are envisioned as centers of activity that will attract investments stimulate growth and create employment prospects.
Environmental Sustainability Considerations
In line, with increasing awareness of sustainability concerns the Usahihi Expressway project includes various eco friendly initiatives.
The road construction will follow the standards set by KeNHA to ensure durability and lower maintenance requirements. Moreover there are efforts, in place to reduce the impact of the project including measures to safeguard wildlife and natural habitats.
Local Interest: Perspectives from the Community
People living near the expressway are hopeful that the upcoming project will improve their quality of life. Farmers and traders who currently face difficulties transporting their products are excited, about the prospect of having access to markets. The community is anticipating access to healthcare, education and essential services, with reduced travel times.
Business owners, in discussions express excitement about the benefits that the new expressway will bring. Small businesses are looking forward to a boost in customer traffic while larger companies expect efficiency, in their supply chain processes.
Read also:Â $2 Billion Massive New Nairobi Airport to be Constructed in Kenya as Pressure Mounts on JKIA
Read also:Â Mombasa Gate Bridge: The Longest Bridge in Africa Set to Transform Coastal Kenya
Usahihi Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway Project Details
The Usahihi Expressway project stands out for its engineering techniques and innovative construction methods. The expressway will have two to four lanes alongside the existing two lane Nairobi–Mombasa Road (A109 Road). Engineered for 100 kph (62 mph) traffic flow outside areas the road will include interchanges and toll stations for efficient traffic management.
The government will introduce innovative toll systems to ensure payment processes for road users. These systems will improve revenue collection and maintenance funding, which will help support the project’s long-term sustainability.
Viewpoints from Stakeholders: Insights from Government and Investors
The agreement signed between Everstrong Capital and KeNHA represents a step in Kenya’s infrastructure development. U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman highlighted the projects importance noting, “This road segment is crucial for Kenya’s growth and a new highway will provide a safer route for all drivers, passengers and pedestrians who rely on this key corridor for work, leisure and residence.”
Everstrong Capitals participation underscores the increasing interest of investors in Kenya’s infrastructure sector. The firm’s expertise in financing organization, construction management, tolling systems, operation procedures, and maintenance practices will help ensure successful completion of the expressway.
Revival of a Stalled Project
The Usahihi Expressway project represents the start of a awaited infrastructure initiative. Initially set to begin construction in 2018 with Bechtel as the selected contractor delays occurred due, to disputes over funding approaches. Bechtel stepped back from the project in 2021 following Kenya’s decision to opt for a Public Private Partnership (P3) model.
Under the agreement with Everstrong Capital this marks a start and commitment, to progressing the project over a span of 30 years. The expressway will enhance the existing transportation network. Which includes the SGR and the historic Kenya Uganda Railway established back in 1901.
The Usahihi Nairobi Mombasa Expressway represents more than a roadway; it embodies a vision for Kenya’s future. By enhancing connectivity driving progress and improving the lives of millions of Kenyans. This initiative is positioned to become an element of the country’s development strategy. As construction advances all eyes will be, on Kenya as observers witness the impact of this transformative infrastructure project.
Read also: Adani Airport Holdings Proposes Modernization of Kenya’s JKIA Amid Controversy and Optimism
