Kenya’s government has noted that the Mombasa-Mtwapa Highway project is 90% complete through its government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura. The highway linking Nyali Bridge to Mtwapa is being transformed into a dual carriageway. The transformation includes the construction of service lanes, interchanges, and pedestrian bridges. In addition, the project features modern lighting and roadside commercial amenities. Funded by the African Development Bank, the European Union, and the Kenyan government, the road stretches over 40 kilometers from Mombasa to Kilifi.
With some minor delays due to compensation for land and utilities, the majority of sections are still on schedule. The Mombasa-Mtwapa Highway project is part of the East African Coastal Corridor projects aimed at improving trade and transportation at the regional level. It will reduce travel time greatly while improving trade and tourism. The project is, to date, being estimated to be finished late in 2024 or early 2025. The government continues to monitor outstanding work, including quality checks, conserving the environment, and monitoring on compensation.
Also read:
454-Kilometre Kenya-Tanzania Road to be Completed in 2024
Project Factsheet
Significance:
- Enhances efficiency in transportation by reducing travel time from Mombasa to Kilifi.
- Enhances Kenya’s regional integration of the East African Coastal Corridor.
- Spurs economic growth through increased tourism, property development, and cargo transportation.
- Encourages urbanization and commercial investment via roadside integrated infrastructure.
Infrastructure:
- Dual carriageway upgrade from Nyali Bridge to Mtwapa, and along the way to Kwa Kadzengo.
- Includes six grade-separated interchanges, service roads, streetlights, and footbridges.
- Roadside commercial stops and amenities are planned to stimulate local economic activity.
- Covers over 40 kilometers along the Mombasa-Kilifi corridor.
Developer:
- Funded by the African Development Bank, European Union, and Government of Kenya in collaboration.
- Maintained by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) under routine oversight.
- Implementation monitored for quality, compensation, and environment standards.
Funding:
- Financed by a mix of multilateral grants and national government subsidy.
- A component of the overall East African transport development plan.
- Aligns with Kenya’s vision for sustainable infrastructure development and regional trade facilitation.
Challenges:
- Delays in construction due to land compensation process and relocation of utility services.
- Coordination of urban traffic management during construction stages.
- Safety, quality control, and getting the balance of the infrastructure on time.
- Final works anticipated for completion latest by late 2024 or early 2025.
The Significance of the Mombasa-Mtwapa Highway Project
Once completed, the Mombasa-Mtwapa Highway project will improve the efficiency of transport and boost economic development. It will also facilitate the transportation of passengers and cargo. The real estate properties along the highway have already increased in value by twice their original value. The project will also attract investment in tourism, housing, and warehousing. Moreover, it will promote regional integration, enhances safety, and stimulates development. The government remains committed to its completion on time. The upgrading of the highway covers Nyali Bridge to Kwa Kadzengo. Upgrades include the implementation of six interchanges, lights, and footbridges. Though there were delays but completion phases are in progress.
Also read:
Kenya to Secure Multi-Billion Loan for the Construction of the 124-kilometre Kenya-Tanzania Road
Tanzania Government Seeks Approval for Construction of Controversial 452-kilometer Serengeti Road
