Wajir town road upgrade completed to improve local access

The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has finalized the upgrade of a 2.5-kilometer road circuit within Wajir County. The project, which connects Griftu Stage through Algoye and Shoka to the County Commissioner’s office, was part of a targeted effort to improve the internal road network within the regional hub.

According to technical specifications released during the procurement phase, the works involved the upgrading of the existing passage to bitumen standards. The finished project features a paved carriage way and integrated pedestrian walkways lined with interlocking concrete paving blocks. The inclusion of non-motorized transport facilities addresses previous safety concerns for residents navigating the town center.

The project was executed under the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF) budget for the 2024/2025 financial year. It was specifically designated for the women category under the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) program. The construction period was slated for nine months, followed by a standard three-month defects liability period to ensure the road meets the required engineering benchmarks.

Infrastructure in Wajir has faced historical challenges due to the arid environment and sandy terrain, which often make unpaved tracks impassable during rainy seasons. The completion of this bitumen stretch is intended to provide reliable year-round access to the Wajir County Referral Hospital and several educational institutions located along the Shoka and Algoye corridors.

Local trade and transport logistics are expected to see immediate shifts as the new pavement reduces vehicle maintenance costs and transit times between the main stage and government offices. The project aligns with KURA's broader strategy for Wajir, which includes a planned 65.8-kilometer expansion of town roads under the Development of Urban Roads in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas project, supported by the OPEC Fund for International Development.

Road safety features installed during the final phase include marked zebra crossings and distinct solar lighting components to enhance visibility during night hours. These additions are consistent with modern urban road standards implemented by the authority across northern Kenya to support 24-hour economic activity.