The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has officially kicked off the comprehensive rehabilitation and beautification of the crucial 27-kilometre corridor stretching from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to ABC Place in Westlands. The project, announced by President William Ruto, aims to restore the heavily used lower-deck road that suffered significant damage during the construction of the Nairobi Expressway.

For thousands of Nairobians, this project is a direct response to the persistent traffic gridlock and poor road conditions that have plagued their daily commutes since the Expressway's completion. President Ruto, speaking during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, acknowledged the public's frustrations, noting that the lower road had faced "significant challenges." The works, which began this December, are intended to not only improve traffic flow but also to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the primary gateway into Kenya's capital.

Fixing the Foundation

The rehabilitation addresses the cracks, uneven surfaces, and drainage issues that emerged on Mombasa Road, Uhuru Highway, and Waiyaki Way during the Expressway's construction. While the government had previously allocated around KES 3.5 billion for repairs, the current initiative is part of a broader, more ambitious vision to modernize the city's infrastructure. Earlier this year, KeNHA also earmarked KES 42 million (approx. $323,000) specifically for beautification efforts along the corridor.

This overhaul is a critical piece of the puzzle for the city's transport ecosystem. It promises to alleviate the daily bottlenecks that cost commuters time and money, directly impacting the cost of doing business and the quality of life for residents who rely on the non-tolled highway.

A Wider Vision for Nairobi's Roads

The Mombasa Road project does not exist in isolation. President Ruto emphasized that it is part of a larger government strategy to upgrade the capital's road network in collaboration with the Nairobi County Government. Key plans announced include:

• The dualling of major commuter roads, including the Bomas of Kenya to Rongai and Kiserian route.
• Upgrading the Bomas-Karen-Ngong road to a dual carriageway starting next year to ease chronic congestion.
• A proposed 60-kilometre expressway from Museum Hill to Thika to complement the increasingly congested Thika Superhighway.

While these upgrades promise long-term relief, KeNHA has advised motorists to anticipate temporary traffic disruptions as the work progresses. The authority has urged the public to cooperate with traffic marshals on site to ensure a smooth workflow and minimize inconvenience.

As the heavy machinery rolls in, Nairobians are watching with a mixture of hope and caution. The promise is a smoother, safer, and more visually appealing artery into the city—a change that could translate into shorter commutes, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and a much-needed boost to the capital's image.