Residents of Tinderet Sub-County in Nandi County are optimistic that the completion of the 56-kilometre Timboroa-Taptengelei-Maraba-
The Sh2.6 billion project, which is 95 per cent complete, serves several settlements and trading centres and is expected to ease the movement of people and goods, reduce travel time and lower transportation costs for farmers, traders and other road users.
Matatu operator John Kiptoo said the improved road would make public transport more reliable while reducing vehicle maintenance costs associated with travelling on poor roads.
“Once the road is completed, we expect smoother journeys, fewer vehicle breakdowns and more predictable travel times. This will benefit passengers and operators because we will spend less on repairs and fuel,” he said.
Kiptoo added that improved accessibility could attract more public service vehicles to the route, giving residents greater flexibility when travelling to markets, workplaces and health facilities.
Traders are also anticipating increased business as better road conditions improve access to markets and make the delivery of goods more efficient.
Mary Chebet, a trader at Maraba trading centre, said poor road conditions, particularly during the rainy season, often delayed deliveries and increased transportation expenses.
“We sometimes experience delays when bringing goods to the market, especially during rainy weather. A good road will help us receive supplies on time, reduce transport expenses and increase our sales,” she said.
Farmers, who depend largely on agriculture for their livelihoods, expect the road to improve the transportation of produce to markets, collection centres and cooperatives.
David Sirma, a farmer in the area, said delays caused by poor roads often affected earnings by increasing transport costs and making it difficult to deliver produce promptly.
“Farmers invest heavily in production, but poor transport can reduce the money we earn. With a reliable road, we will deliver our produce faster and negotiate better prices with buyers,” he said.
The road is expected to ease the movement of maize, coffee, milk and other agricultural products, potentially reducing losses and improving farmers’ access to buyers in neighbouring markets.
Students are also expected to benefit from improved connectivity, which could make daily journeys to schools and colleges easier and more reliable.
Peter Rotich, a student from the area, said better transport would help learners arrive at school on time and participate more consistently in academic activities.
He added that improved road access could enable students to reach vocational training institutions and other educational facilities beyond their immediate villages.
Residents further expect the project to improve access to hospitals, administrative offices and financial institutions, making it easier for communities to obtain essential services.
The road is also expected to strengthen trade links between Nandi and neighbouring Uasin Gishu County, creating opportunities for businesses to reach wider markets and expand their operations.
Residents have called for the project to be completed to the required standards, with proper drainage systems and durable road surfaces to ensure the route remains accessible throughout the year.
They said timely completion and proper maintenance would be essential to securing the anticipated benefits, including lower transport costs, improved household incomes and better service delivery.
The residents maintained that an efficient road network would help unlock Tinderet’s agricultural potential, support small businesses and improve the livelihoods of communities along the corridor.
By Sammy Mwibanda
