Japan Confirms Support for KSh85 Billion Mombasa Gate Bridge Project

Japan has given a fresh update on its support for the proposed Mombasa Gate Bridge. The project is valued at KSh85 billion and will provide a permanent road link between Mombasa Island and the South Coast across the Likoni Channel.

The cable-stayed bridge is expected to stretch about 1.4 kilometres across the channel. The entire project, including approach roads and interchanges, will cover approximately 13 kilometres. It will accommodate four lanes of traffic while allowing sufficient clearance for ships accessing the Port of Mombasa.

The bridge is intended to serve as an alternative to the Likoni Ferry. It aims to ease congestion, improve connectivity and enhance the movement of people, goods and tourists between the island and the South Coast.

Funding will come under Japan’s Official Development Assistance programme through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Japan has confirmed its support as part of ongoing infrastructure cooperation with Kenya.

The project has faced delays due to land acquisition, compensation of affected households and completion of environmental and social impact requirements. Construction preparations are underway, though no specific start date has been announced.

Japan has previously supported similar projects in Kenya, including the Mombasa Southern Bypass, Nyali Bridge and Kilifi Bridge.

Hori Tomonobu, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim at the Embassy of Japan in Kenya, said: “We have supported Kenya in the construction of key projects such as the Mombasa Southern Bypass, Nyali Bridge, and Kilifi Bridge. We are also planning future projects, including the construction of the Mombasa Gate Bridge.”

The comments were made today during the launch of bridge maintenance manuals by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).

The project is expected to significantly improve transport links in the coastal region once completed.