NAIVASHA: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has welcomed the speedy expansion of the Rironi–Mau Summit Highway, stating that travelers will soon enjoy seamless journeys on the busy stretch.
Speaking during an inspection of the ongoing works at several locations on Monday evening, the Deputy President expressed satisfaction with the contractors’ efforts to accelerate the transition of the highway into a multi-carriageway.
He noted that the frustrating traffic snarl-ups and deadly road crashes that have long plagued the key transit route to western Kenya will soon be a thing of the past.
“Soon, this expansive dual and triple carriageway will resolve the frustrating traffic gridlocks, fatal road accidents, and the disappointment of lost travel time,” Prof. Kindiki said adding that, “It will open up our economy, expand opportunities, save human lives, and enhance trade within Kenya, as well as across Eastern and Central Africa.”
Once complete, the highway is expected to significantly cut travel times, lower vehicle operating costs, and boost motorist safety through the integration of grade-separated interchanges, overpasses, and underpasses.
Prof Kindiki attributed the realization of the mega-project to President William Ruto’s determination to modernize the country’s key infrastructure.
“This project is being actualized through the hard work of President Ruto. The idea has been broached since the 1980s, but it is this administration that is finally implementing it,” the DP noted.
During his tour, the Deputy President interacted with construction workers, part of a workforce of thousands recruited to fast-track the project.
He assured them of the government’s full support and encouraged them to use the opportunity to empower themselves and acquire specialized skills.
“You are not only earning a livelihood but also helping achieve a historic milestone for this country. On behalf of President Ruto and the government, we are grateful for your commitment toward the faster realization of this major project,” he told the workers.
The highway is being expanded through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework. Plans are also underway to eventually extend the dual-carriageway expansion all the way to the Kenya–Uganda border.
Prof. Kindiki emphasized that through such mega-projects, the youth are securing immediate employment while upskilling for future opportunities.
“We are doing everything to make sure our youth get jobs and, importantly, upscale their skills through their involvement in these mega-projects. This is the best way to involve the youth—not through handouts or inciting them to engage in violence,” he stated.
President Ruto launched the road’s expansion last November, challenging the contractors handling the various sections to strictly adhere to the stipulated completion timelines.
