Sh16.7 billion highway project to open up Kisumu and surrounding counties

MABEL KEYA AND ROBERT ONYANGO-KNA

Residents of Kisumu are set to reap significant transport and economic benefits from the ongoing construction of the Sh16.7 billion Mamboleo– Miwani–Chemelil– Muhoroni–Kipsitet road, whose progress marks a major milestone towards completion.

The multi-billion-shilling infrastructure project, which has long been awaited in the region, is steadily taking shape, with authorities expressing optimism that it will be completed by July next year.

According to the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) Nyanza Regional Director, Fredrick Oyuga, the road project has been divided into three key sections to enhance efficiency and minimise construction risks.

The first segment, covering 12.6 kilometres between Mamboleo and Miwani, including a 6.5-kilometre dual carriageway, is currently 24 per cent complete.

The second section, stretching approximately 20 kilometres from Miwani to Chemelil, has reached 34 per cent completion, while the third and longest stretch, from Chemelil through Muhoroni to Kipsitet, spanning about 44 kilometres, is 22 per cent complete.

Oyuga noted that the project, which commenced in 2021, initially faced funding constraints that slowed progress.

However, the challenges have since been addressed, with the government introducing policies and regulations to ensure the project is financed through the Fuel Levy Fund, guaranteeing a steady flow of funding.

“All contractors are now fully mobilised on site, and works are progressing as scheduled,” he said.

Project engineer Catherine Mwinyi explained that the road is being constructed to higher pavement standards to accommodate heavy commercial traffic, particularly trucks serving key industries such as the Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries, Chemelil and Muhoroni Sugar Companies respectively.

She added that the road will function as a critical bypass, offering a shorter and more efficient route for motorists travelling between parts of Nandi, Kericho, and Kisumu Counties, while significantly easing persistent traffic congestion at the busy Ahero Interchange.