The proposed Chavakali–Kapsabet–Eldoret Airport Road has been identified as a priority infrastructure project under the Lake Victoria Basin Development Project portfolio, conceptualized by the Kenyan government and the World Bank.
This was disclosed by a Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) delegation during a stakeholder engagement meeting in Vihiga County.
Speaking while leading the KeNHA delegation during a high-level consultation with National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) from Vihiga County, led by Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Linet Kerubo Orina, KeNHA representative Rose Oloo said the road project is among key investments aimed at improving transport infrastructure and stimulating economic development within the Lake Victoria Basin region.
Oloo noted that the authority is currently undertaking stakeholder consultations on the preliminary planning and implementation arrangements for the proposed road project to ensure that all relevant interests and concerns are captured before the project progresses to subsequent stages.
She explained that the Chavakali–Kapsabet–Eldoret Airport Road will serve as a strategic transport corridor linking Vihiga, Nandi and Uasin Gishu counties, thereby enhancing mobility, facilitating trade and improving access to essential services for residents and businesses along the route.
The engagement brought together NGAOs and technical officers who deliberated on the project scope, anticipated benefits, implementation requirements and stakeholder roles in supporting the successful delivery of the road project.
The participants also discussed the importance of community sensitisation, land acquisition processes where necessary and inter-agency collaboration throughout the project cycle.
Speaking during the meeting, Orina welcomed the consultations, emphasizing the importance of involving local stakeholders at the planning stage to ensure smooth implementation and maximum benefits to communities.
The Deputy County Commissioner reaffirmed the national government commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to development and improved service delivery for the people.
Once completed, the Chavakali–Kapsabet–Eldoret Airport Road is expected to significantly improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, enhance access to markets, educational institutions, health facilities and other social amenities, while creating opportunities for investment and socio-economic growth across the Lake Victoria Basin region.
The project forms part of broader efforts by the government of Kenya and other development partners to strengthen infrastructure networks and unlock the economic potential of counties within the Lake Victoria Basin through strategic investments in transport and the related sectors.
By Kelly Barasa
