MIXED REACTIONS FROM MOTORISTS AFTER CABINET APPROVES EXPANSION OF KIAMBU ROAD
The Cabinet has officially approved the dualling of the 23.5-kilometre Muthaiga–Kiambu–Ndumberi road, commonly known as Kiambu Road, as part of a major initiative to ease chronic traffic congestion and improve mobility between Nairobi and Kiambu counties.
The existing two-lane highway will be expanded into a four-lane dual carriageway with additional bypasses, service lanes, loops, and access roads.
The project also includes dedicated non motorised transport lanes and commuter facilities aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Motorists have expressed mixed opinions about the project. Many welcome the expansion, hoping it will significantly reduce peak-hour gridlocks and shorten travel times for thousands of daily commuters who rely on this busy corridor connecting Nairobi’s northern suburbs to the rapidly growing residential and commercial hubs of Kiambu.
The improved road network is also expected to boost economic productivity and improve the overall commuting experience.
However, some motorists and lobby groups have raised concerns about potential delays and disruptions during construction, as well as the project’s costing and financing arrangements and it risks becoming a politically timed showpiece with limited transport value.
“What the Cabinet has announced sounds shiny on paper, but there are several sober, evidence-based reasons why this policy shouldn’t be rushed just to tick a political box before elections,” the statement read.
“Election seasons usually come with cosmetic promises, fresh paint on neglected roads, and quick wins for political optics. But Kiambu Road is not a playground for political grandstanding.”
The project is being funded by a commitment from the China Export Import (EXIM) Bank, and works will be carried out under an international contract model aimed at ensuring cost and time certainty.
Overall, the Cabinet’s approval marks a key step in Kenya’s broader strategy to modernise the Nairobi metropolitan transport infrastructure, aligned with Kenya Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals for infrastructure and sustainable mobility.