EMBU, Kenya- Embu County has launched a Sh145 million road upgrade project that will see four kilometres of key urban roads upgraded to bitumen standards, in a major push to improve infrastructure and boost economic activity across the county.
Governor Cecily Mbarire officially handed over the roads earmarked for upgrading in Embu Town, Rwika, Siakago, Runyenjes and Muchagori.
The project will cover the Billionaire–Dallas, Rosteve–Woods and Bondeni–Minni Inn roads in Embu Town, Muchagori Tarmac, Runyenjes Town Exit, Siakago Market roads and Rwika Market road.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Mbarire, County Executive Committee Member for Roads, Transport, Infrastructure, Logistics and Energy Francis Ndwiga said the project targets busy commercial areas to make it easier for traders to operate.
“This project has largely focused on areas where businesses are concentrated so that we can make it easier for traders in Embu to do business,” Ndwiga said.
“Improving road access in these towns will directly support local enterprises and stimulate economic growth,” he added.
Ndwiga revealed that the county government has identified additional roads across all 20 wards for phased upgrading in the future.
“Our focus is to improve access within Embu Town and other urban centres, and we have already identified more roads in every ward that will be upgraded over time,” he said.
“Better infrastructure will uplift the economic status of residents and accelerate the growth of our urban areas.”
He noted that the project is expected to create employment opportunities and improve access to markets, while enhancing the appearance of the towns.
“These upgraded roads will create jobs, open up markets and make our towns more attractive,” Ndwiga said.
“The exercise is in line with the Governor’s commitment to build better roads, create employment and raise living standards.”
Ndwiga also said the implementation will involve close collaboration with local residents and leaders.
“We are working hand in hand with residents and local leaders, including chiefs, assistant chiefs and MCAs, to ensure communities benefit from both development and job opportunities,” he said.
Kirimari Ward MCA Ibrahim Swaleh welcomed the launch, saying improved roads will ease movement in the busy ward and support businesses located along the affected routes.
He urged the county government to prioritise long-lasting tarmac roads over murram surfaces and called on the contractor to offer employment opportunities to local youth.
Swaleh also appealed for patience from business owners and motorists, warning of temporary inconvenience during construction.
The road upgrading project is expected to take six months to complete.
