NAIVASHA, Kenya – Residents of Naivasha have voiced strong opposition to plans to introduce toll charges on the proposed Rironi–Mau Summit expressway, warning that motorists would be subjected to “double taxation.”
The concerns emerged during a public participation forum on the 233-kilometre project, which is expected to break ground in the coming months.
Officials from the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) told residents that the design phase is underway, with a feasibility study showing the urgent need to expand the busy Nairobi–Nakuru highway into a modern expressway.
Senior KeNHA engineer Antony Ng’ang’a said two Chinese contractors had already been identified for the project, which will include three- and four-lane sections, with toll stations to be placed at designated points.
“The Nairobi–Nakuru highway is one of the most congested and dangerous roads in the country. Traffic jams are the norm, and many lives have been lost here. This expressway will address these challenges once completed,” Ng’ang’a said.
‘Double taxation’ concerns
But former Lakeview MCA Simon Wanyoike rejected the tolling plan, arguing that Kenyans are already taxed through the fuel levy, which is meant for road construction and maintenance.
“Introducing toll charges is simply double taxation. We shall resist it,” he warned, urging contractors to also build a pedestrian footbridge for Milimani Primary School pupils as part of their corporate social responsibility.
Edward Mariku, speaking on behalf of the Naivasha business community, welcomed the project but demanded the inclusion of service lanes and underpasses to improve access to residential estates along the route.
“This project is a potential game-changer, but residents must directly benefit through jobs and business opportunities,” he said.
Calls for transparency
Former Government Delivery Service (GDS) head Peter Mbae pressed for transparency, questioning why a previous deal with a French consortium was abandoned and demanding disclosure of the project’s cost.
“Taxpayers deserve to know how much this project will cost and how the debt will be managed,” Mbae said.
Naivasha Deputy County Commissioner Josiah Odongo assured residents that they would be prioritised for employment and business opportunities once construction begins.
The Rironi–Mau Summit expressway is one of Kenya’s most ambitious road projects, aimed at decongesting the Nairobi–Nakuru corridor, cutting travel time, and boosting trade between Nairobi and western Kenya.
