Finally! Date Set for Rironi–Mau Summit Road Kickoff

First mentioned in 2019, the Rironi–Mau Summit Road expansion was identified as a matter of urgent national importance, an essential solution to the traffic snarl ups and road accidents that had claimed hundreds of lives along the busy Northern Corridor.

For years, the project remained in limbo, despite multiple mentions to the public and reassurances from officials. Finally, a definitive start date has been confirmed by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, marking a long-awaited turning point.

The cost of the prolonged delay, however, has been steep. Motorists have borne the brunt of the inaction, with many spending up to 15 grueling hours stuck in traffic. T

he economic cost in lost time, increased vehicle operating expenses, and logistical inefficiencies has been immense.

Yet, the most tragic consequence has been the loss of lives. According to a report published by Mtaa Wangu on March 17, 2025, over 160 deaths were recorded in four years (Data bound within Nakuru County).

But change is finally in sight.

In a public address during a burial in Arimi, on May 15,2025, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki confirmed that construction of the 170-kilometer Rironi–Mau Summit Road will begin on July 1,2025 and is projected to be completed by July 2027.

The Sh90 .3billion project aims to dual the highway, expanding it to a four-lane carriageway with some sections growing to six lanes. This transformation is expected to ease congestion along one of Kenya’s most critical transport routes, linking Nairobi to the western regions.

Kindiki emphasized that the project will be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, prioritizing local labour and materials.

Although initial plans involved French contractors, the government has since opted for a new partnership with Chinese firms, under revised terms.

“This road is not just an upgrade in infrastructure; it’s an investment in our economy. It promises to revitalize economic activity and businesses in the Rift Valley, Nyanza, and Western Kenya and offering direct employment to youths from Nakuru,” says Kindiki

What changes to expect.

The delayed expansion has disrupted not only passenger travel but also freight movement, creating ripple effects across Kenya’s economy.

The completed project is expected to drastically reduce travel times, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and significantly improve road safety.

As groundworks break in July, optimism is returning to the Northern Corridor.

For road users and businesses alike, the long-awaited project represents not just concrete and tarmac, but a lifeline, a promise, and a long-overdue step forward.