It is a sigh of relief for Laikipia North residents following the commencement of the long-awaited construction of the 58-kilometre Nanyuki-Doldol road, a Sh5.5 billion project expected to improve connectivity and access to essential services in the region.
Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) Resident Engineer Howard A. M’mayi, speaking during a public participation forum in Jua Kali, confirmed that the contract was active following a commencement meeting held in July. The upgrade to bitumen standard is expected to take 36 months.
“The project involves upgrading the road to bitumen standard and improving the existing bitumen sections from the main junction in Nanyuki town through Cedar Mall, Batuk and the Naibor turn-off,” Eng. M’mayi said.
He added that the project would involve widening the carriageway, constructing shoulders and pedestrian walkways. Upon completion, the road will serve as a Class B national highway.
Eng. M’mayi said the project was prioritised following a directive by President William Ruto during his visit to the area, where he emphasised the need to connect Doldol residents to Nanyuki and the rest of the country through a reliable and motorable road.
Laikipia North Member of Parliament Sarah Korere welcomed the development, saying residents had endured severe hardships due to the poor state of the road.
“We have lost many lives while trying to transport patients from Doldol to Nanyuki for treatment and medical emergencies, including deliveries. Mothers, newborns and victims of banditry have died simply because of the state of that road,” Korere said.
“This project brings much-needed relief to the pastoral communities,” she added.
Laikipia East Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Muli praised the initiative, saying improved road access would enhance security in an area that has been hampered by poor infrastructure. He urged residents to support the government-led project and raise concerns early to avoid interference with its implementation.
Local residents expressed optimism that the project would boost businesses, improve transport and reduce vehicle breakdowns caused by the rough terrain.
“A lot of things have been affected in this region. However, we expect to benefit businesses and the transport sector and also minimise breakdowns of our vehicles due to poor roads. It is a sigh of relief, and we are going to wait for the given period until its completion,” said Jua Kali resident John Maina.
Pricilla Legei said she anticipated lower transport fares and easier movement of livestock and goods to markets, activities that had previously been hampered by the poor road network.
Daniel Lemosian said the upgraded road would spur growth in Doldol town, attract new developments and create employment opportunities for local youth. He urged the contractor to prioritise hiring young people from the area.
The project is being undertaken by H-Young East Africa Limited and will include a virtual weighbridge to control overloading.
By Muturi Mwangi
