Ruto Signs Landmark Deal for Ksh477 Billion Usahihi Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway Project
In one of the biggest infrastructural development, President William Ruto has signed a landmark deal for the construction of the Ksh477 billion Usahihi Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway. The project, which aims to transform the transport corridor between Kenya’s capital and its main port city, is set to commence in the coming months.
During the signing ceremony at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto highlighted the project’s significance for Kenya’s economy and regional connectivity. “This expressway is not just a road; it is a lifeline that will enhance trade, create jobs, and spur economic growth. The Usahihi Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway will significantly reduce travel time and costs, making it easier for businesses to operate and for people to travel,” Ruto said.
The expressway, which will stretch approximately 482 kilometers, is designed to be a modern, high-speed highway that can accommodate increased traffic and provide a safer travel route. The project is being financed through a public-private partnership, with significant investment from international stakeholders. “We are grateful to our development partners for their commitment to this transformative project,” Ruto added. “Their investment is a testament to the confidence in Kenya’s economic future.”
Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, who was also present at the ceremony, provided further details about the project’s timeline and expected benefits. “Construction of the Usahihi Expressway will commence within the next six months and is expected to be completed in five years. This project will not only improve transportation efficiency but also stimulate local economies along the route,” Murkomen stated.
Local communities along the planned route have been assured of consultation and involvement in the project’s development. President Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to minimizing disruption and maximizing benefits for these communities. “We are committed to ensuring that this project is carried out with the utmost respect for local communities. We will engage with all stakeholders to address concerns and ensure that the benefits are shared widely,” he said.
The signing of this deal marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s infrastructure development agenda. The Nairobi-Mombasa corridor is one of the busiest in the region, serving as a critical link for both domestic and international trade. The expressway is expected to reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of goods movement between the two cities, which is crucial for the country’s economic growth.
As Kenya embarks on this ambitious project, the government remains optimistic about the transformative impact of the Usahihi Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway. The project is seen as a key element in achieving Vision 2030, Kenya’s long-term development blueprint aimed at transforming the country into a newly industrializing, middle-income economy. The expressway promises to be a catalyst for progress, driving forward Kenya’s aspirations for a more connected and prosperous future.
