World Bank approves Sh71.5bn funding for key Northern Corridor road

NELLY KOSGEY-PCO

The Government has secured Sh71.5 billion (US$550 million) in additional financing from the World Bank to accelerate the completion of the Isiolo–Mandera Regional Road Corridor (B9).

The funding, approved by the World Bank Board, includes US$260 million for HoAGDP II and US$290 million for the ongoing programme.

It represents one of the largest infrastructure credit packages supporting Kenya’s transport sector in recent years.

Eng Joseph Mbugua, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Roads, said that the funding will unlock full implementation of critical stalled sections of the 740-kilometre corridor, particularly the Modogashe–Samatar and Rhamu–Mandera stretches.

“All remaining sections are now fully funded, clearing the way for accelerated completion. As of April 2026, physical progress along the corridor stands at 54.29 percent, with construction ongoing across 11 contract packages,” he noted.

Eng Mbugua said that contractors have been fully remobilised following improved cash flow, restoring momentum on what is truly a flagship national infrastructure project.

He pointed out that the Isiolo– Mandera Corridor will upgrade over 365 kilometres of road to bitumen standard, alongside 50 kilometres of feeder and urban link roads.

“It will also deliver a 740-kilometre fibre optic backbone as part of Kenya’s Digital Superhighway initiative, expanding high-speed internet access to underserved regions,” he said.

“In addition, OneStop Border Posts at Rhamu and Mandera will streamline trade with Ethiopia and Somalia, while social infrastructure such as water facilities, schools, health centres, and livestock markets will be developed along the corridor,” said the PS.

The completed corridor, he said, will cut travel time between Isiolo and Mandera from about 96 hours to nearly 48 hours.

He said that transport costs will reduce significantly, improving market access for livestock and agricultural produce.

The fibre optic component will also bridge the digital divide, connecting schools, hospitals, businesses, and government services to reliable broadband connectivity.

“While sections of the corridor continue to face security challenges, we are working closely with multi-agency security teams to safeguard ongoing works, personnel, and equipment,” Eng. Mbugua assured.

He noted that the project is being implemented by six key agencies, including the State Department for Roads, Kenya National Highways Authority, ICT Authority, National Transport and Safety Authority and Kenya Revenue Authority.

“The Isiolo–Mandera Corridor is a vital section of the broader Nairobi–Isiolo–Mandera transport corridor, central to Kenya’s trade integration agenda under the Horn of Africa Initiative,” he said.

According to the PS, this project will open up Northern Kenya, strengthen regional trade links, and stimulate inclusive economic growth across the Horn of Africa.

“We are firmly on track for completion by 2030, when the corridor will be fully paved and operational,” concluded Eng Mbugua.