Key roads in Nairobi and Eldoret to be upgraded in Kenya-China deal

Kenya and China have signed major infrastructure agreements during President William Ruto's state visit to China, marking a major step in improving the country’s transport networks.

Among the key initiatives is the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), which will link Naivasha to Kisumu and Malaba, alongside various road projects that will enhance connectivity in Nairobi and Eldoret cities.

The agreement includes the dualing of key roads, such as the Rironi-Mau Summit Highway, and improvements to Nairobi’s Northern Bypass and Kiambu Road.

These upgrades will be carried out under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China’s global development strategy focused on enhancing connectivity.

These efforts are aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving the movement of people and goods within Kenya and across the region.

The SGR extension is a major part of the agreements, with Phase 2B extending from Naivasha to Kisumu, and Phase 2C continuing from Kisumu to Malaba.

The completed phases, from Mombasa to Nairobi (Phase 1) and Nairobi to Naivasha (Phase 2A), have already improved transport capacity significantly.

The new phases are expected to further boost trade and regional mobility, offering faster and more efficient travel between key Kenyan towns.

The deal also involves the upgrading of roads in Eldoret, which has recently been elevated to city status.

Key projects include the construction of the Eldoret Eastern Bypass, the dualling of Cheplasgei-Maili Tisa, and the upgrade of other important rural roads.

These initiatives are expected to improve traffic flow and provide better access to key economic areas in the region.

In addition to these projects, the two countries signed a Framework Agreement for Phase III of Nairobi’s Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS).

This system will use advanced technologies like intelligent cameras, variable traffic lights, and a centralized control center to better manage the city’s traffic flow.

The first phase of the ITMS has already been piloted successfully on Nairobi’s Western Ring Road, and the next phase will redesign 25 key junctions across the city to further reduce congestion.

The agreements also include the development of Kenya’s railway system through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on railway laws, infrastructure, and operational standards.

This partnership will set the groundwork for a modern rail network that connects regions across Kenya, supporting both local travel and international trade.

China has been a key partner in the development of Kenya’s infrastructure, with the country being one of the largest recipients of Chinese financial aid in Africa.

These latest agreements are set to bring substantial improvements to Kenya’s transport sector, enhancing both urban mobility and regional connectivity.