Residents of Igembe East Ward in Igembe Central Constituency have called for the speedy completion of Koree Road, warning that its poor condition could worsen movement and access to essential services if heavy rains associated with the anticipated El Niño occur.
The residents said delayed construction works had left the road in a poor state, raising concerns that some sections could become impassable during heavy rainfall.
Koree Road connects Kiengu, Nthambiro, Matiandui and other parts of Igembe East and is used by residents, traders and boda boda operators.
The residents said they had expected the road to be completed after a contractor was brought to the site by area Member of Parliament Dan Kiili, but expressed concern over the slow pace of construction.
Dr Martin Kimathi, a resident, said residents had hoped the road would be completed before the long rains.
“We hoped we would get the road before the long rains,” he said, urging residents in flood-prone areas to take precautions and prepare for possible effects of heavy rainfall.
Residents also raised concerns about large stones removed from sections of the road during construction. They said some of the stones had been left along the road and near homes, affecting access.
Kienfu Baikoli, a resident living with a disability, said stones had been left near his home, making access difficult.
Kanjira Susan said stones placed near her gate had also affected access for her motorcycle.
Residents said the poor condition of the road had contributed to increased transport costs and higher motorcycle maintenance expenses.
Maina Kinyua, a resident of Nthambiro, said the cost of travelling between Nthambiro and Kiengu had increased significantly.
“We used to spend Sh50. Now we spend over Sh100,” he said.
Dickson Mugambi, chairman of Igembe East boda boda operators, said motorcycle riders were incurring additional expenses because of frequent breakdowns caused by the poor road conditions.
“The road is worse than it was,” Mugambi said.
He also raised concerns about drainage along Kiengu and Kaurine roads, saying poor drainage could make the routes difficult for motorcycles to navigate during heavy rains.
Residents further reported disruptions to water infrastructure along some sections of the road.
Deric Kadaudi said residents along the PCEA-Kiengu road had experienced problems with water pipes during road works, forcing some households to buy water.
The residents called on the contractor and relevant government agencies to expedite the road works and improve drainage before the rains intensify.
They also urged the county and national governments to address concerns affecting access to homes, gates and water infrastructure along the road.
Felix Mwirigi said residents were concerned about the progress of road projects they said had been promised by the area MP, and called for greater attention to development projects in the area.
The residents said completing Koree Road would improve connectivity between Kiengu, Nthambiro, Matiandui and other parts of Igembe East while reducing transport costs and motorcycle repair expenses.
by Kamanja Maeria and Brenda Gakii
