PEOPLE

President William Ruto has recently announced the dualling of the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway, following the recent traffic snarl-up along the major road. Speaking during a church service at the AIC Kipkorgot in Uasin Gishu County, the president revealed that the construction of the dual carriageway would begin next year. The head of state also noted that the dualling of the highway would be carried out by a private contractor under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) programme. According to him, the highway will be constructed in two phases: the first phase will involve the construction of the highway from Nairobi to Nakuru, while the second phase will extend from Nakuru to Malaba. The President furthermore explained why the expansion of the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway into a dual carriageway has not happened. Ruto noted that previous plans to construct a dual carriageway connecting Nairobi and Nakuru did not materialise due to a breach of contract by a French company that had been tasked with the construction. “We had a PPP programme with a French company, but it did not work out. However, we have alternatives that we are working on as a government. The commitment I want to give you is that next year, we will begin the construction of the dual carriageway from Nairobi to Nakuru first, and then from Nakuru to Malaba,” he noted. He went on to disclose that the government had already begun discussions with various private companies on how the road would be constructed. The Head of State moreover noted that the same would be done to other unfinished roads across the country.  

Hundreds of Kenyans travelling upcountry for the festive period have been directed to avoid the Nairobi-Nakuru highway due to the heavy traffic congestion being experienced. According to a post by St John Ambulance those who began travelling on Friday, December 20, have been stranded along the busy highway for hours. The congestion is between Kimende and Flyover, as well as along the Limuru-Maai Mahiu stretch. “There is heavy traffic congestion along Nairobi Nakuru Highway between Kimende and Flyover and also along the Limuru – Maimahiu stretch. Avoid the area if you can,” the post by St John Ambulance warned. Moreover, in videos circulating on social media, some motorists are seen to have  abandoned their vehicles by the roadside. Kenyans travelling have been urged to use alternative routes, including the Nairobi-Naivasha and Gilgil routes. The Matatu Owners Association, which oversees much of the public transport sector in the country, have noted that travel fare is likely to increase. According to the association, the recent decline in fuel prices will not be reflected in fare prices.