State deploys extra workers to clear Rironi highway logjam

The government has moved to speed up works on the Ksh200 billion Rironi highway project by deploying additional construction teams, following public concerns over delays in the section.

The project, managed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), aims to create over 15,000 jobs.

A key deadline for a section of the 175-kilometre road dualling is set for June 1, 2027, with plans for national celebrations.

Once complete, the project will be part of President William Ruto's milestones, as his administration remains keen on fast-tracking a number of key infrastructure projects in the country.

The deployment follows growing public dissatisfaction with the pace of execution, forcing the state to intervene and boost human resource capacity on site.

The contractor recently opened applications for hundreds of positions under the Rironi to Gilgil and Rironi to Maai Mahiu to Naivasha road project.

The recruitment notice covered construction and site works, drivers and plant operators, alongside technical and support roles.

The expansion project includes the following categories of workers:

* General laborers, masons, steel fixers, and formwork carpenters.

* Concrete workers, welders, foremen, and piling workers.

* Truck drivers, water bowser drivers, and oil tanker drivers.

* Crane operators, excavator operators, grader operators, roller operators, and bulldozer operators.

* Civil engineers, surveyors, plant and equipment engineers, and mechanics.

* Electricians, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) officers and assistants, management support officers, and security personnel.

The massive capital injection and heavy machinery deployment reflect the state's urgency to deliver the project on schedule, minimizing economic disruption along the busy transit corridor.