NAIROBI, Kenya – A long-awaited solution to one of Kenya’s most congested highways is finally on the horizon.
President William Ruto on Sunday announced that the construction of a dual carriageway from Nairobi to Nakuru will commence in 2025 under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.
The project, which will eventually extend to Malaba, aims to transform the critical corridor into a modern dual carriageway, easing the notorious traffic that has long plagued travellers, particularly during festive seasons.
“Next year, we will begin the construction of a dual carriageway first from Nairobi to Nakuru,” President Ruto revealed, adding that the government is in the process of securing a deal to ensure the project’s success.
The move comes as a relief for motorists and passengers who have endured endless gridlocks, with some traffic jams lasting days.
During such instances, frustrations have boiled over into near-humanitarian crises, as food and fuel supplies for stranded commuters ran out.
Recently, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) had to issue alternative routes to ease congestion, highlighting the urgency for a permanent solution.
The Nairobi-Nakuru highway, part of the Northern Corridor linking Kenya to neighboring Uganda and beyond, is among the busiest in East Africa.
Its strategic importance in facilitating trade, tourism, and transport cannot be overstated.
Experts predict that the dual carriageway will not only reduce travel time but also significantly enhance road safety by curbing the frequent accidents caused by the high volume of traffic.
The PPP model ensures private sector involvement in the design, financing, and construction phases, reducing the financial burden on the government while guaranteeing efficient delivery.
This model has proven successful in similar infrastructure projects globally.
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