NAIROBI, Kenya — Ongoing works along the Kasarani–Mwiki Road have sparked mixed reactions among residents, with many questioning why the project is prioritising non-motorised transport infrastructure instead of addressing the road’s longstanding problems of potholes, poor drainage and traffic congestion.
The busy road, which stretches from the Roysambu Roundabout on Thika Road to Njiru, serves thousands of commuters from estates including Kasarani, Hunters, Sunton, Mwiki and Njiru.
For years, residents have complained about the deteriorating condition of the road, citing narrow lanes, inadequate drainage and numerous potholes that make travel difficult, especially during the rainy season.
NMT Project
Recent construction works between Roysambu Roundabout and St. Francis Hospital initially raised hopes that the road would undergo a comprehensive upgrade.
However, it later emerged that the works form part of the Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) Infrastructure Project, which is aimed at improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists across selected corridors within the Nairobi Metropolitan Area.
According to Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri, the project will provide safer mobility for residents who walk or cycle along the corridor.
“A footpath and cycle track is being developed running from Thika Road to St. Francis. This is especially welcome news for the thousands of students and residents who walk this road daily; they will now have a safe, dedicated path off the carriageway,” Karauri said.
The project includes:
- A 1.5-metre cabro-paved cycle track;
- A 2-metre cabro-paved pedestrian footpath;
- Traffic bollards to separate motor vehicles from the NMT corridor;
- Street lighting;
- Shelters, benches and canopies at selected points; and
- Directional signage for users.
Residents Want Road Upgraded
Despite welcoming improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, many residents say the project does little to address the road’s most pressing challenges.
They argue that poor drainage, narrow carriageways and damaged road surfaces remain the biggest obstacles to movement and should have been addressed alongside the NMT works.
Around the Maternity area, residents say drainage systems are either blocked or non-existent, with some drainage channels reportedly occupied by furniture traders, leading to stagnant sewage water.
Some have questioned why the road is not being widened and resurfaced before investment is made in cycling and pedestrian infrastructure.
Residents maintain that a comprehensive upgrade would better serve the growing population using the corridor daily.
Promise of Carriageway Repairs
Karauri has assured residents that improvements to the main road are still planned.
“KURA will also be commencing repair works on the Kasarani–Mwiki Road carriageway, meaning residents can expect a much improved road experience on all fronts,” the MP said.
The planned repairs are expected to be undertaken by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA).
However, some residents remain sceptical, noting that similar assurances have been made in the past without significant improvements to the road.
They say they will judge the project based on whether the promised carriageway repairs are eventually implemented.
