Government Allocates Ksh7 Billion for Massive Nithi Bridge Redesign and Construction

The Kenyan government has committed Ksh7 billion toward the complete redesign and reconstruction of the Nithi Bridge, located along the busy Meru-Nanyuki highway. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki confirmed the development, noting that the project will involve the construction of a viaduct spanning nearly three kilometres.

Once finished, the new structure will rank as the second-longest bridge in the country, trailing only the Dongo Kundu bypass in Mombasa. The move follows persistent public outcry over the high number of fatalities recorded at the site, which has long been designated a black spot.

Kindiki stated that the state has already identified a contractor for the works. Although the designs are finalized, the project faced significant setbacks that prevented an earlier start. The CS attributed these delays to administrative hurdles involving the National Land Commission and the complex process of land compensation for the locals.

The Nithi Bridge has a grim history of road accidents, often involving passenger buses and heavy trucks losing control on the steep approach. Engineering experts have previously pointed to the sharp curvature and the gradient of the existing bridge as primary factors in these frequent tragedies.

The proposed 3km viaduct aims to eliminate the dangerous descent into the valley by providing a more level and direct crossing. This structural change is expected to significantly reduce the risk for motorists navigating the Tharaka Nithi section of the highway.

Kindiki assured that the logistical bottlenecks are now resolved. With the funding secured and land issues addressed, the contractor is expected to move to the site to begin the civil works shortly. The CS emphasized that the government is prioritizing the project to stop the loss of lives.

The Nithi crossing has remained a major concern for President Ruto’s administration as it seeks to modernize northern corridor connectivity. The locals have frequently held protests at the site, demanding a permanent engineering solution rather than routine maintenance or additional signage.

In comparison to other major works, the Nithi project represents one of the most expensive bridge interventions per kilometre in recent years. This high cost is attributed to the complex topography of the Nithi River valley and the sheer length of the elevated viaduct required.

While the Dongo Kundu bridge remains the longest at 6.6 kilometres, the Nithi viaduct will be a landmark feat of engineering for the central region. The project is managed under the Kenya National Highways Authority, which will oversee the technical execution and safety compliance throughout the building phase.

The government maintains that the bridge is not just a transport link, but a critical safety intervention. By bypassing the traditional winding route, the new design will allow for a more predictable flow of traffic between Nairobi and the Mount Kenya region.

Compensation for the locals impacted by the new alignment remains a priority to avoid further legal delays. Kindiki noted that the National Land Commission is now working in tandem with the Ministry to ensure all displaced persons are handled fairly under the law.

Construction is expected to provide jobs for the locals during the multi-year implementation period. The engineering team will face the challenge of building massive piers in the deep valley while keeping the existing road open for the daily flow of transit vehicles.