The government of Kenya has earmarked US $132M (Sh17bn) to restart work on 12 stalled road projects in Nyeri County. Deputy President Prof. Kithure Ki
The government of Kenya has earmarked US $132M (Sh17bn) to restart work on 12 stalled road projects in Nyeri County. Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki made the announcement and said the funds will now allow for the completion of 464 kilometres of previously halted road work over the next three years.
This development comes as part of broader efforts to accelerate infrastructure projects following a period of economic stabilization credited to President William Ruto’s policy interventions. Deputy President Kindiki noted that measures to address inflation, the cost of living, and fuel prices—as well as efforts to stabilize the Kenya shilling have created a fiscal environment conducive to such major infrastructure investments.
Stalled roads
One highlighted project is the 66-kilometre Mweiga-Amboni-Karandi/Endarasha-Charity-Watuka-Embaringo-Kimunyuru road, which was originally commissioned in 2019. Despite a planned completion period of 42 months, the project stalled when the contractor encountered challenges; at that time, only 13.4 kilometres had been upgraded to bitumen. Construction resumed in October 2024, and the project is now expected to be completed by August 2026 at a cost of Sh2 billion.
The project under the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) has created employment opportunities for 154 local workers, including engineers, technicians, and casual laborers. Additionally, the contract includes a three-year maintenance component, whereby the contractor (a Chinese firm) will be responsible for keeping the road in good condition post-construction.