Kindiki: Isiolo–Mandera road will transform Northern Kenya

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said the 749-kilometre Isiolo–Mandera road under construction will transform the economy of northern Kenya, create jobs, improve trade, and connect the region to the rest of the country.

Speaking during an inspection tour on Tuesday, Kindiki said the Sh100 billion project, the longest single road project in Kenya’s history, is now taking shape after years of broken promises by past governments.

"This road is going to connect Isiolo to Mandera; many people thought it was not possible. From what I am seeing, I want to confirm to the people of Kenya that this is going to be a game-changing project," he said.

The DP said the road will not only improve transport and business across northeastern Kenya but also help integrate the region into the national economy and boost cross-border trade with Ethiopia and Somalia.

"It will open northeastern Kenya, improve the economy of the area, improve security and integrate the economy of northern Kenya with the rest of the country, it will create jobs, and it will make it easier for the movement of people and goods and improve trade between Kenya, Ethiopia, and even Somalia," Kindiki said.

The Deputy President said the road will unlock the untapped potential of the region and increase its contribution to the national economy.

“Once complete, this road will change the economic fortunes of Kenya because the northern part has huge potential to contribute to the GDP of the country, the problem has been poor road network, poor infrastructure, but this government is determined to complete this project in time to open up this area for economic transformation," said Kindiki.

"Roads are one of the multipliers and enablers of socio-economic development."

The project, which is being implemented by 11 contractors, is expected to be completed by 2027.

The road connects several towns, including Isiolo, Kula Mawe, Modogashe, Samatar, Wajir, Tarbaj, Kotulo, Kobo, Elwak, Garre, Rhamu, and Mandera.

To speed up the work, it has been divided into 11 sections and assigned to seven firms.

Kindiki also said the government is working to expand electricity access in northern Kenya, starting with a Sh1.1 billion electrification programme in Isiolo County.