NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto on Thursday presided over the groundbreaking of a Sh3.1 billion road project linking key tea-growing areas in Kipkelion East, Kericho County.
The 53-kilometre Sabunit–Kapkondor/Furaha–Hill Tea Access Road is expected to be completed within 24 months, with construction machinery already deployed to the site.
Ruto launched the project on the second day of his four-day tour of Bomet and Kericho counties, during which he is inspecting, commissioning and launching development projects.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot and other local leaders accompanied the President during the groundbreaking ceremony.
Road project to cover 53 kilometres
Officials briefing Ruto said the road will connect several areas, including Furaha, Chepsion, Kapkondor and Hill Tea Junction.
The project will also include a five-kilometre section linking the road to the Tea Research Centre, providing an additional connection for residents and economic activities in the area.
The entire project is estimated to cost Sh3.1 billion, with the contractor expected to complete the works within a 24-month contract period.
The road is expected to improve connectivity between communities and key economic areas in Kipkelion East, particularly the tea-growing zones around Hill Tea and the Tea Research Centre.
Ruto flags off construction
During the ceremony, Ruto unveiled the project information board before flagging off construction machinery to officially signal the start of the road works.
The launch is among several infrastructure projects being rolled out during the President’s ongoing tour of Bomet and Kericho counties.
The government has continued to prioritise road infrastructure as part of efforts to improve the movement of people and goods, enhance access to markets and support economic activity.
For residents and businesses in the tea-growing areas, the new road is expected to strengthen links between farms, research facilities, communities and other economic centres once completed.
Ruto continues Bomet and Kericho tour
Ruto’s Kericho visit forms part of his wider four-day tour of Bomet and Kericho counties, which began on Wednesday, September 9.
The President is expected to continue commissioning and launching development projects during the tour, alongside engagements with local leaders and residents.
