Everstrong Capital Denies Cancellation of Nairobi–Mombasa Expressway, Confirms Project Restructuring

Nairobi, August 15, 2025 — U.S. infrastructure fund Everstrong Capital has dismissed reports that its ambitious Sh468 billion public–private partnership (PPP) to construct the Nairobi–Mombasa Usahihi Expressway has been cancelled.

In a statement, the firm clarified that the project is undergoing restructuring after Kenya’s Public–Private Partnerships Committee recommended revisions to ensure the proposal aligns with the government’s affordability criteria.

New Consortium Partners

Everstrong confirmed plans to replace the original Portuguese contractor Mota-Engil with a broader consortium that includes:

• Larsen & Toubro (India)

• Samsung (South Korea)

• IC Holding (Turkey)

• Webuild (Italy)

Global financial giant JP Morgan has been tapped as the lead arranger for the financing package.

Project Design and Scope

The proposed 440-kilometre toll highway would connect Nairobi and Mombasa, significantly reducing travel times along Kenya’s busiest trade corridor.

• 70% of the route will require new land acquisition.

• 30% of the route will be integrated into the existing Mombasa Road (A8 highway).

• The plan incorporates wildlife corridors to protect ecosystems and advanced tolling technology for efficiency.

Next Steps and Government Position

Government officials noted that the updated proposal will undergo fresh review by the PPP Committee before a final decision is made on whether construction can proceed.

The project has faced criticism over potential toll costs, with some stakeholders warning that high charges could limit affordability for motorists. Proponents, however, argue that the expressway is vital for regional trade, logistics efficiency, and economic growth.