The Coast Development Authority (CDA) has commenced construction of the long-awaited Mjanaheri–Ngomeni road, a crucial link to key security and economic installations, including an international space centre in Kilifi County.
Dr. Mwansiti Bendera, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Mombasa-based state corporation, said the 12-kilometre road is being developed alongside health and educational facilities under the Malindi Integrated Social Health Development Project II (MISHDP II).
MISHDP II is being implemented by CDA through a concessional loan of €6.39 million (about Sh966 million) from the Government of Italy.
Dr. Bendera noted that the road project that is expected to cost approximately Sh560 million will unlock new opportunities for investment and growth in Kilifi County.
“Construction of the Mjanaheri–Ngomeni road is one of the flagship activities under this programme. It will open up Ngomeni and its surroundings to development activities that will benefit both local communities and national interests,” she said during a verification tour of ongoing projects under Phase Two of MISHDP in Magarini Sub County, Kilifi County.
Ngomeni, a fishing village in Magarini Sub-County, hosts the Italian Space Agency, which also accommodates the Kenya Space Agency.
The area is further home to a Kenya Navy base, a fish landing site, and a market managed by the Ngomeni Beach Management Unit (BMU). It is also known for sand harvesting, thanks to its extensive sand dunes.
“Once completed, the road will transform this area in terms of business and accessibility. It will benefit the fishing community, enhance trade, and improve access to basic facilities.
“Beyond Ngomeni, the entire Magarini Sub-County will experience increased economic activity,” Dr. Bendera added.
Mr. Kassim Bwana, chairman of the road project committee, welcomed the development, noting that poor road conditions had long hindered transport and access to essential services.
“Since independence, we have faced transport challenges due to the poor state of this road. Expectant mothers have delivered on their way to health facilities, and fish traders have struggled to move their goods to Malindi,” he said.
Mr. Bwana said security operations by the Kenya Navy, Kenya Maritime Authority, and the Italian Space Centre have also been affected and thanked the Government of Kenya and CDA for securing funding from Italy.
Ngomeni Senior School Principal, Mr. Twaha Mwatsahu echoed the sentiments, saying poor transport had discouraged enrolment, especially among day scholars.
“The new road will open up the area and allow more students to access the school through public transport,” he said.
By Emmanuel Masha
