MAKUENI, Kenya – Two days after President William Ruto unveiled the KSh1.1 billion construction of the Emali–Matiliku road in Makueni County, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka now claims the project site has already been abandoned, with “no single activity” taking place.
Kalonzo, who toured the road on Friday, said all heavy machinery that had been stationed at the site during Wednesday’s launch had disappeared, raising concerns over what he described as a growing pattern of “cosmetic” project unveilings by the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“Shockingly, all the big machinery is gone and no work has begun,” he posted on X. “This pattern repeats itself across the country, a regime more interested in grand launches and photo opportunities than in actual progress. That is why the whole country sings #WANTAM as our second national anthem.”
Visited the Emali-Matiliku road, which was launched just two days ago by Mr. Ruto.Shockingly, all the big machinery is gone and no work has begun. This pattern repeats itself across the country, a regime more interested in grand launches and photo opportunities than in actual
What Ruto Launched
President Ruto had on November 12 officially launched the construction of the 20-kilometre Emali–Matiliku section, part of the 42-kilometre Emali–Ukia road meant to boost connectivity across Makueni.
He said the project would open up major trade routes by linking Kativani, Manywani, Matiliku, Kalamba, Nziu and Ukia trading centres to Nairobi, Kajiado and Mombasa.
“The KSh1.1 billion project will reduce transport costs, expand trade in perishable goods and livestock products, and enable farmers to reach markets more quickly,” the President said during the launch.
The road is also expected to cut travel time and improve safety along the busy corridor while supporting agricultural value chains in the region.
Local contractors and suppliers are projected to benefit during the construction phase.
Launched construction of the 20km Emali-Matiliku road, part of the 42km Emali-Ukia road, Ndundune, Makueni County.The KSh1.1 billion project will open up key market access points by linking Kativani, Manywani, Matiliku, Kalamba, Nziu, and Ukia trading centres, and Wote town
Questions Over Implementation
However, Kalonzo’s remarks now cast doubt on the pace and seriousness of implementation, reviving long-standing criticism that some national projects are launched with fanfare before stalling shortly after.
Residents in parts of Makueni have previously appealed for expedited completion of road projects, saying poor connectivity has increased transport costs and slowed agricultural trade.
The Emali–Matiliku road is expected to take several months to complete.
