KeNHA Restores Traffic on Iten-Kabarnet Road Following Kolol Landslide

The Kenya National Highways Authority has officially reopened the Iten-Kabarnet Road to traffic after a landslide temporarily paralyzed transport along the winding escarpment route.

In a public notice issued on May 5, 2026, the authority confirmed that the debris that obstructed the road near Kolol has been successfully cleared.

The disruption was the direct result of a landslide triggered by the ongoing heavy rainfall currently being experienced across various parts of the country.

Landslides are a recurring challenge for engineering teams in this specific region of the Rift Valley, where steep gradients and loose volcanic soils often become unstable during the peak of the rainy season.

The Iten-Kabarnet Road is a vital artery for both commuters and the transport of agricultural goods between Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties.

Any closure on this stretch typically forces motorists to use long, arduous detours, significantly increasing travel times and transport costs for local businesses.

Director General Eng. Luka Kimeli stated that while the road is now open, motorists must continue to exercise extreme caution when navigating the affected section.

The authority has deployed traffic marshals and coordinated with police officers to manage the flow of vehicles while the site conditions continue to stabilize.

Drivers have been instructed to strictly adhere to directions provided by on-site personnel to prevent accidents during the transition back to normal operations.

KeNHA noted that the ground remains saturated, which requires a heightened level of alertness from those behind the wheel, especially during evening hours or periods of continued drizzle.

The agency extended its appreciation to the public for the patience shown while heavy machinery worked to move the earth and rocks that had spilled onto the asphalt.

Emergency maintenance teams remain on high alert as the meteorological department warns of sustained rainfall in the highlands, which could pose further risks to the structural integrity of embankments.

Work is expected to continue on the peripheral drainage systems to ensure that runoff is directed away from the road surface to minimize the risk of future mudslides in the Kolol area.

The restoration of this link is a relief for the regional economy, which relies heavily on the timely movement of produce through the Kerio Valley.

Motorists are encouraged to check for official updates before embarking on journeys through hilly terrains during this season of erratic weather patterns.