NAIROBI – The government has earmarked Sh1.6 billion for the traffic capacity enhancement of State House Road, a key project in a Sh15.6 billion national road maintenance and upgrade programme covering 92 roads across the country.
A Strategic and Sensitive Corridor
The planned works for State House Road, linking Nairobi’s Central Business District to State House and government offices, are described in a tender notice as “traffic circulation and capacity enhancement.” The road is a vital but often disrupted corridor, especially during demonstrations when police impose restrictions. Its security profile was highlighted in October following an attack on a General Service Unit officer stationed at the State House.
Major Projects Across the Counties
The expansive programme features several other high-value projects nationwide. Significant allocations include:
- Sh1.1 billion for the upgrade of Chelimo Road in Kericho Town.
- Sh967.5 million to upgrade Gede-Kakuyuni roads in Kilifi County to bitumen standard.
- Sh950 million for the construction of Eldoret City link roads.
- Sh850 million for dualling Oginga Odinga Avenue from the Subukia underpass to the Westmall roundabout in Nakuru.
Kilifi North MP Owen Baya welcomed the planned works in his region, describing them as “a major step forward” that reflects cooperation between local leaders and the national Kenya Kwanza administration.
Procurement Rules and Broader Infrastructure Agenda
The tender, signed by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority, sets specific rules: each bidder can apply for only two projects and win a maximum of one. Furthermore, 52 of the 92 tenders have been reserved for youth, women, and persons living with disabilities. The notice cautions that canvassing will lead to disqualification.
This road programme aligns with the Kenya Kwanza government’s long-term infrastructure plan. During his November State of the Nation address, President William Ruto outlined ambitions to dual 2,500km of highways and tarmac 28,000km of roads. Other priority projects like the Rironi-Mau Summit road and the politically noted Kyuso-Tseikuru road in Makueni County are also part of this national push.
