Sh4.89 Billion Road Projects Launched to Improve Connectivity in Nakuru

President William Ruto has launched road projects worth Sh4.89 billion aimed at improving transport and easing movement within Nakuru County and its surrounding areas. The projects are part of a broader national programme to upgrade road infrastructure, support economic activity and improve access to key services for residents. The launch brought together national and county leaders, contractors and local residents, many of whom have long raised concerns about the state of roads in the region.

The road works target key urban and rural links that connect Nakuru City to nearby towns, markets, learning institutions and health facilities. Several of the roads have been in poor condition for years, becoming difficult to use during rainy seasons and increasing vehicle maintenance costs for motorists. By upgrading these routes to bitumen standards and improving drainage, the government aims to make transport more reliable throughout the year.

Speaking during the launch, President Ruto said the projects are meant to support everyday economic activities such as trade, farming and tourism. Nakuru sits along an important transport corridor linking Nairobi to western Kenya and the Rift Valley and improved connectivity is expected to reduce travel time and lower the cost of moving goods. The president noted that better roads help farmers reach markets faster and allow businesses to operate more efficiently.

The projects include the construction and rehabilitation of several kilometres of roads within Nakuru City as well as feeder roads in surrounding sub counties. Urban roads are expected to ease traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, while rural roads will improve access to farms and trading centres. Contractors have been instructed to adhere to set timelines and quality standards to avoid delays and cost overruns that have affected past projects.

Local leaders welcomed the investment, saying it addresses long standing infrastructure gaps. Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika said improved roads will support the county’s growth as a commercial and industrial hub. She added that the projects complement ongoing efforts to expand housing, improve water supply and attract investors to the region. Members of Parliament from the county also said better roads will improve access to schools and hospitals, especially in areas that have been hard to reach.

Residents expressed cautious optimism, noting that previous road announcements had not always translated into completed projects. Traders and public transport operators said they hope the works will be completed on schedule and maintained properly once finished. Many pointed to the high cost of vehicle repairs caused by potholes and poor drainage, saying reliable roads would ease their daily expenses.

The national government says the Nakuru projects are part of a wider plan to expand and maintain road networks across the country. Under this approach, priority is given to roads that support economic activity, link counties and improve safety for road users. The government has also pledged to involve local labour where possible, creating short-term employment opportunities during construction.

Engineers from the Kenya National Highways Authority and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority are overseeing different sections of the works, depending on the road classification. They say designs have taken into account traffic flow, pedestrian safety and environmental concerns. Drainage systems, walkways and road markings are included in the scope to improve safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Tourism stakeholders say improved roads could boost visitor numbers to attractions around Nakuru, including national parks and conference facilities. Easier access is expected to benefit hotels, tour operators, and small businesses that rely on visitor spending. With Nakuru’s growing population and expanding city status, demand for reliable infrastructure continues to rise.

As construction begins, attention will focus on implementation and accountability. Residents and leaders alike will be watching to see whether the Sh4.89 billion investment delivers lasting improvements. If completed as planned, the road projects could play a key role in improving mobility, supporting livelihoods and shaping Nakuru’s development in the coming years.