The Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway project has officially resumed after the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Directorate approved two Chinese firms to undertake feasibility studies and begin procurement for the long-delayed infrastructure plan.

The approval, issued on July 2, allows the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and a consortium involving the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and Shandong Hi-Speed Road & Bridge Group Co. to progress to the next phase of the multi-billion shilling project.

The firms had each submitted privately initiated proposals (PIPs) for the highway in May this year.

In its latest disclosures, the PPP Directorate confirmed: “PIPs were submitted by two proponents, namely China Road and Bridge Corporation Kenya (CRBC) and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Consortium and Shandong Hi-Speed Road & Bridge International Engineering Co. Ltd (SDRB). On July 2, 2025, the two PIPs were approved to progress to the project development phase.”

This green light allows the proponents to begin the project development stage, including feasibility studies and contract management, as part of a structured PPP framework that includes seven phases: proposal, preparation, procurement, project contracting, implementation, delivery, and transfer.

The project is divided into two key sections.

The A8 section stretches from the Rironi Interchange to the Mau Summit turnoff, covering 174.9 kilometres. The A8 South section runs 56.38 kilometres from Rironi to Naivasha through Mai Mahiu.

This renewed momentum follows the government’s decision to cancel a Sh197.1 billion contract previously awarded to a French consortium composed of Vinci Highways SAS, Vinci Concessions SAS, and Meridian Infrastructure Africa Fund.

The termination came with a Sh6.2 billion payout after the French group threatened legal action in the London Court of Arbitration.

The fresh Chinese interest in the project came after President William Ruto presented the proposal to the Chinese government.

This engagement led to the submission of the two PIPs to the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).

Once feasibility reports are submitted, the government will enter contract negotiations with the successful bidder.

The Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway is part of the Northern Corridor and the broader Trans-African Highway network, linking the Port of Mombasa to countries in East and Central Africa.

According to the PPP Directorate, “The highway plays a key role in supporting the movement of goods and services across the region, accommodating a substantial volume of heavy commercial traffic that is essential for regional trade and economic development.”