Transport Minister Davis Chirchir has revealed that construction of a significant 143-kilometer road connecting Rift Valley and portions of Nyanza will commence next January.
Chirchir disclosed this information on June 6 during a public gathering in Bomet County, presenting current and future road initiatives being executed throughout the area by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).
He mentioned that the project connecting the four counties of Nakuru, Narok, Bomet, and Migori will receive World Bank funding, with preparations advancing toward the start date.
“That represents a major highway funded by the World Bank. We anticipate beginning construction by January next year,” Chirchir stated, emphasizing that the route will function as an important regional link.
The World Bank-supported road will run from Nakuru via Elburgon, Molo, Embomoss, Koiwa, and north to Bomet, terminating at Chebole before continuing through Chepalungu, Chebunyo, Dikkir, and reaching Awendo in Migori County.
According to project tender documents, the 143-kilometer route is projected to transform commerce between Rift Valley and Lake Victoria regions by directly connecting tea cultivation zones in Kericho and Konoin to sugarcane production centers in Awendo and Migori.
The highway will also decrease travel time by bypassing Kisumu or Narok, reducing fuel expenses, and high-speed fiber optic cables installed underneath are anticipated to enhance internet access in rural communities.
Remote locations along the corridor are also likely to develop into bustling commercial centers, while the asphalted roadway will facilitate faster movement for police and emergency services across county boundaries.
During the event, CS Chirchir also confirmed that multiple other county roads will receive comprehensive rehabilitation with proper asphalt application, as contractors are already present.
Chirchir guaranteed residents that these announcements were not just political rhetoric, noting President William Ruto would shortly visit the region to officially initiate the programs.
“The contractor is already in place, I have personally communicated with most contractors, and we will arrange for the President to visit and launch many initiatives in this area,” he remarked.
He explained these projects contribute to transitioning from a developing to a developed economy under the ‘Singapore Dream’ vision.
The initiative also aims to support the government’s nationwide road development plan over the next seven years via the Ksh5 trillion National Infrastructure Fund.