Kenya’s President William Ruto has revealed that the government is in the process of constructing a 70KM Nairobi Road Project across the capital.
Speaking in Embakasi on Thursday, July 17, the head of State stated that the roads will be crucial in easing traffic across Nairobi. This road project will eventually boost economic transformation within the country’s capital.
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Project Factsheet
Objectives and benefits:
- Ease traffic congestion: the primary goal of this road network development is to significantly reduce the notorious traffic snarl-ups in Nairobi.
- Facilitate trade and economic growth: th improved road networks will enhance access to economic hubs, industrial zones, and essential services, boosting trade and investment.
- Improve road safety: the upgrades once completed will lead to safer road conditions for motorists and pedestrians.
- Enhance regional connectivity: development of better road infrastructure will improve logistical links to neighboring counties such as Kiambu, Murang’a, and Machakos.
- Job creation: the construction phase of the road network is will create many direct and indirect jobs.
- Reduce travel time: Commuters and businesses will experience reduced travel times. Therefore, this will lead to increased efficiency.
Developer: KeNHA
The Project to be Executed in Phases
According to the president, the project will be executed in phases. Also, this road project is part of the government’s strategy to modernize the city and position it as a prominent global hub.
“We have rolled out a comprehensive plan. This plan will transform Nairobi to a top global hub,” Ruto said.
“In the first phase, we are constructing at least 70 kilometres of roads within the city. These roads will to facilitate trade, ease traffic, and spur growth,” he stated.
Also, the president mentioned that the government is in the process of renovating several key roads that are damaged. The renovation of the roads will boost mobility in the city.
Also read: Kenya’s Government Partners with World Bank in the 165-Kilometer Nairobi Rail Expansion Plan
Other Road Projects to be Built by the Government
The announcement of the road network project by Ruto comes two days after the Kenyan National Highways Authority (KeNHA) revealed plans expanding Kiambu Road. The road will be expanded from a two-lane single carriageway to a four-lane dual carriageway. This expansion is expected to ease traffic at the busy road.
In a notice issued by KeNHA on Tuesday, July 15, it said that it has received a total of Ksh38.7 billion loan from the China Export-Import (EXIM) Bank. This loan funding would be utilized in the road expansion project.
Location of the Kiambu Road Expansion
According to information provided by KeNHA, the road will be expanded from Pangani Estate in Nairobi County. It will then extend through Muthaiga and then end at Ndumberi in Kiambu County.
Lastly, the highway will include two-lane service roads on both sides. Additionally, there will be pedestrian walkways along the entire route and new bridges will be installed.
Also read: Kenya’s 170-Kilometer Nakuru-Nairobi Highway Construction to Commence in July
