The government has issued a 25-day ultimatum to two Chinese firms to revise their proposals for the Rironi–Mau Summit highway project. This directive follows a crucial meeting between the National Treasury and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) committee held on Thursday morning.
According to Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) Director General Luka Kimeli, the firms must submit modified Project Development Plans by August 25. These revised plans will undergo evaluation before the construction phase begins.
Kimeli emphasized that the meeting focused on improving the project’s design and construction standards. Discussions also included updated traffic projections and clear timelines for the highway’s delivery.
The proposed highway, which stretches 175 kilometers, is set to connect Nairobi to Nakuru and eventually Eldoret. It forms part of a broader plan to ease congestion along the busy Northern Corridor.
Kimeli noted that President William Ruto is personally committed to seeing the project completed. The road, he said, is a major priority for the administration, highlighting its economic and logistical significance.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir recently told the Senate that several private firms had shown interest in the venture. The project is being implemented through a Public-Private Partnership framework.
CS Chirchir revealed that the development phase was already underway. He expressed optimism that construction could begin before the end of August if all necessary steps are completed.
Once operational, the dual carriageway will help decongest traffic and enhance safety on the road. It is also expected to drastically cut travel time between Nairobi and western Kenya.
In addition to traffic benefits, the highway will promote trade and improve access to markets across the region. It will also serve as a vital link for cargo transport and tourism between major towns.
The project’s completion is projected to bring long-term economic growth along the corridor. For now, all eyes are on the two Chinese firms as they race to submit revised plans within the tight deadline.
The outcome of this review will determine how soon the groundbreaking can occur. Stakeholders remain hopeful that construction will proceed without further delays.
By Nairobi