KURA Launches KSh4.5 Billion International Tender for Wajir Town Roads

The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has issued an international competitive tender for the construction of selected urban roads in Wajir Town. The project forms part of the Development of Urban Roads in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas (ASALs) – Phase I and carries an estimated cost of USD 35 million (approximately KSh 4.5 billion).

Financed by the OPEC Fund for International Development, the programme targets five counties in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions. The Wajir component will upgrade approximately 65 kilometres of roads across 31 individual stretches divided into three bidding lots.

The works will convert existing earth or gravel surfaces to bitumen standards. This upgrade aims to enhance mobility, accessibility, road safety and socio-economic development in Wajir Town, a key administrative and commercial centre in the region.

Bidding follows International Competitive Bidding procedures aligned with KURA guidelines and OPEC Fund requirements. Interested contractors may bid for one, two or all three lots but can win a maximum of two.

A mandatory pre-tender site visit is set for 7 July 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the KeRRA Wajir Office. Bidders must purchase tender documents for a non-refundable KSh 5,000 fee from KURA’s Supply Chain Management Office at Barabara Plaza in Nairobi.

Each bid requires an unconditional bank guarantee of KSh 30 million as security. Submissions close on 4 August 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Nairobi time. Bids will be opened publicly on 30 July 2026.

The project seeks to tackle long-standing infrastructure gaps in Wajir. Poor roads have long limited trade, service access and economic growth. Improved urban roads should boost local businesses, public transport and connectivity to surrounding areas.

KURA has stressed transparency and fairness in the procurement process. Canvassing is prohibited and late bids will be rejected.

This tender is part of wider efforts to modernise road networks in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands. Similar initiatives in other ASAL counties aim to unlock economic potential and raise living standards.

Contractors experienced in challenging environments are encouraged to participate. Successful bidders will deliver works meeting international standards while supporting local employment and skills development.

Interested parties should monitor the KURA website for any addenda or clarifications before the deadline.