The Kenyan Cabinet approved the dualling of the Rironi-Mau Summit Road, expected to start in June 2025 and complete by June 2027. This 170-kilometer upgrade to a four-lane dual carriageway aims to alleviate traffic congestion between Nairobi and Western Kenya. President Ruto emphasized the importance of sustainable infrastructure solutions and acknowledged previous PPP initiatives for further projects.
The Cabinet has granted approval for the dualling of the 175-kilometer Rironi-Mau Summit Road, set to commence in June 2025. This infrastructure enhancement aims to significantly ease travel for motorists heading to Western Kenya, with completion anticipated by June 2027. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto, who underscored the importance of this project for national connectivity.
The upgrade will transform the existing two-way single carriageway into a four-lane dual carriageway, thereby improving traffic flow considerably. This initiative seeks to alleviate transportation issues commonly faced on weekends and public holidays between Nairobi and Western Kenya, which often endures heavy congestion.
The Cabinet announced that the project is a part of a broader strategy for infrastructure development, aimed at bolstering connectivity and fostering economic growth throughout the nation and the region. Furthermore, in December 2023, President Ruto outlined plans for another dual carriageway along the Nairobi-Nakuru-Malaba highway to address the severe traffic congestion experienced during peak travel seasons.
While addressing the public, President Ruto confirmed the commitment to resolving infrastructure issues sustainably. Despite an unsuccessful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative with a French company, he expressed optimism about alternative partnerships to ease congestion on the major transport routes.
The National Police Service had to deploy extra officers and a helicopter to manage the traffic crisis during the December travel peak, raising concerns about sustainable infrastructure solutions. Moses Kuria, the President’s Economic Advisor, advocated for a PPP model to expedite highway expansion, warning that dependence on public funding will not suffice. He emphasized this necessity during discussions about improving road infrastructure and addressing ongoing congestion challenges effectively.
The dualling of the Rironi-Mau Summit Road represents a significant advancement in Kenya’s infrastructure plans, aimed at improving connectivity and alleviating traffic woes experienced by motorists. With construction set to begin in June 2025 and expected completion by June 2027, this project highlights a commitment to sustainable development through possible public-private partnerships. The dialogue surrounding infrastructure challenges indicates an urgent need for innovative approaches to transportation solutions, as stressed by various officials.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
