Cabinet Approves Dualling of Rironi-Mau Summit Road to Alleviate Congestion

The Cabinet has approved the dualling of the Rironi-Mau Summit road, set to commence in June 2025 and complete by June 2027. This project aims to upgrade the existing road infrastructure to enhance traffic flow between Nairobi and Western Kenya. While specific financing details remain undisclosed, the government is pursuing public-private partnerships for effective implementation.

The Cabinet has officially approved the dualling of the 175km Rironi-Mau Summit road, with construction anticipated to begin in June 2025. This project aims to improve travel for motorists heading to Western Kenya. The government has indicated that the construction is expected to reach completion by June 2027.

During the Cabinet meeting, chaired by President William Ruto, it was directed that the framework for construction be finalized for the groundbreaking of a four-lane dual carriageway to commence by June 1, 2025. However, the specific financing model and the companies involved in the project execution have not been disclosed.

The upgrade will transform the existing two-lane carriageway into a four-lane dual carriageway, which is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion between Nairobi and Western Kenya, particularly during busy weekends and national holidays. The Cabinet has highlighted that the project’s completion is targeted within 24 months and is part of a larger initiative to enhance national infrastructure and stimulate economic growth.

In a December 2023 address, President Ruto mentioned plans for adding a dual carriageway to the Nairobi-Nakuru-Malaba highway, driven by the severe traffic issues observed during the festive season. He noted the government’s commitment to finding long-term solutions to infrastructure challenges.

Ruto acknowledged previous Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives that did not succeed, but assured that discussions with various companies are ongoing to facilitate the construction of the Nairobi to Malaba dual carriageway in 2025, aiming to enhance transport capabilities and reduce congestion.

During the December travel peak, additional police resources were deployed to manage severe traffic on the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway, igniting discussions about the need for sustainable infrastructure solutions. Economic Advisor Moses Kuria emphasized the critical role of a PPP model to advance the highway expansion and cautioned against relying solely on public funds, which he deemed unsustainable for ongoing infrastructure needs.

In conclusion, the Cabinet’s approval of the Rironi-Mau Summit road dualling represents a significant step towards enhancing transportation infrastructure in Kenya. With construction slated for June 2025 and targeted completion by June 2027, this project aims to alleviate highway congestion while improving connectivity between regions. The government remains focused on long-term solutions, with ongoing discussions regarding infrastructure development models to ensure sustainable progress.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke