President Ruto Unveils Ambitious Plan to Dual 19 Major Highways Across Kenya

President William Ruto has announced a comprehensive infrastructure development programme that seeks to revolutionise the transport sector in Kenya through the dualing of nineteen major roads.

Speaking during the State of the Nation Address in Parliament, the Head of State outlined a vision to modernize the country's road network to enhance regional competitiveness and stimulate economic growth.



The ambitious plan involves the dualing of 2,500 kilometers of highways and the tarmacking of an additional 28,000 kilometers over the next decade.

The President emphasized that an expanded transport and logistics network is the backbone of any thriving economy and drew comparisons with Japan's post-war recovery, which was fueled by aggressive road expansion.

Implementation of the programme is set to begin immediately, with the President scheduled to launch the dualing of the 170km Rironi-Naivasha-Nakuru-Mau Summit road next week. 

On the same day, ground will be broken for the 58km Rironi-Maai Mahiu-Naivasha road, to alleviate the notorious gridlock often experienced on that route during weekends and holidays.

These projects mark the beginning of a nationwide initiative that touches on several critical corridors, including the Muthaiga-Kiambu-Ndumberi and Machakos Junction-Mariakani roads.

The list of roads earmarked for dualing is extensive and covers various regions to ensure inclusivity in development. Key projects include the Mau Summit-Kericho-Kisumu and Kisumu-Busia highways, which will open up the western tourism circuit and cross-border trade.

Other significant corridors listed are the Mau Summit-Eldoret-Malaba and Athi River-Namanga roads alongside the Karatina-Nanyuki-Isiolo and Makutano-Embu-Meru-Maua routes.

The Coast region will benefit from the Mtwapa-Malindi and Mombasa-Lunga Lunga projects, while Nairobi and its environs will see upgrades to the Northern Bypass and James Gichuru Road.

Further enhancing connectivity, the President revealed plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Kisumu starting in January 2026.

This holistic approach to infrastructure also includes leveraging public-private partnerships to modernize Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and the ports in Mombasa and Lamu.

By addressing these logistical bottlenecks, the government aims to position Kenya as a premier investment destination and a logistical hub for East and Central Africa.