The US-based infrastructure investment firm Everstrong Capital has just made an announcement of planning to commence the construction of Nairobi-Mombasa Usahihi Expressway next year. This announcement was revealed by the company’s Senior Advisor, Kyle McCarter who clarified that the construction works on the 440-kilometer highway would start in the first quarter of 2026.
Additionally, the update issued, McCarter also revealed that Everstrong Capital was planning to submit a formal feasibility study in May this year. This is expected to be approved by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).
Usahihi Expressway Project Factsheet
Project name: Usahihi Expressway
Developer: Usahihi Expressway Limited, backed by US-based Everstrong Capital.
Route: The expressway will run alongside the existing Nairobi-Mombasa highway.
Length: Approximately 440 kilometers.
Lanes: It will be a dual carriageway, with the number of lanes varying (potentially four to six lanes in total).
Estimated total cost: Approximately $3.5 – $3.6 billion (KES 452 – KES 468 billion).
Funding:
- Everstrong Capital aims to raise KES 129 billion ($1 billion) from domestic pension funds and financial institutions.
- An additional KES 323 billion ($2.5 billion) is targeted from international investors.
- The project is structured as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) using a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model over a 30-year concession period.
Expected timeline:
- Feasibility study is expected to be completed by May 2025.
- Construction is expected to commence in early 2026.
- Also, construction is projected to take approximately four years.
Key features and benefits:
- Reduced travel time: Expected to cut travel time between Nairobi and Mombasa from the current 10+ hours to approximately 4.5 hours.
- Economic growth: Aims to boost economic activity along the corridor by facilitating faster and more efficient movement of goods and people, enhancing trade and tourism.
- Decongestion: Intended to decongest the existing Nairobi-Mombasa highway.
- Job creation: Expected to create employment opportunities during the construction and operation phases.
- Toll revenue: Revenue will be generated through toll fees, primarily from heavy commercial vehicles, which are anticipated to be the primary users (projected to account for 75% of revenue).
- Sustainability features: Plans include rest stops, wildlife observation points, electric vehicle charging infrastructure powered by renewable energy, and wildlife overpasses.
Feasibility Study
“Update on delivery: submitting feasibility study in May, looking for on-time approval from Kenha & PPP, financial close by end of year,” the update read.
Also, the former US Ambassador to Kenya gave the update hours after meeting former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Additionally, in the meeting the two leaders discussed the need for proper infrastructure in Africa.
Additionally, during the meeting, the duo also discussed the positive economic impact the Nairobi-Mombasa expressway would bring to Kenyans and the wider region.
“The announcement comes about two months after Everstrong Capital and CPF Capital & Advisory Limited officially signed a project agreement to raise Ksh129 billion for the construction of the highway and construction beginning Q1 2026,” McCarter announced.
Significance of the Project
According to Everstrong Capital, the road project will revolutionise Kenya’s transportation network. Furthermore, the project will position the country as a key player in the East African wealth corridor by enhancing connectivity and boosting economic growth.
Lastly, the Usahihi Expressway is expected to be the largest toll road in Africa. The project focuses on sustainability, featuring wildlife corridors, electric vehicle charging and renewable energy infrastructure.