The construction of the Isiolo–Modogashe road, a key segment of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP), has reached 45 percent completion, marking a major milestone in efforts to boost connectivity and economic transformation across Northern Kenya.
According to Resident Engineer Justus Otwali, who oversees the Kulamawe–Modogashe section, the project has made steady progress as the government remains committed to completing it within the stipulated timeline.
“The project commenced in September 2022 and is scheduled for completion by May 2027. Although we faced some security challenges in the early stages, the intervention of local security teams and community leaders helped resolve them, allowing work to continue smoothly,” said Otwali.
The road is part of the 750-kilometre Isiolo–Mandera corridor, a flagship infrastructure project jointly funded by the Government of Kenya and the World Bank. Once complete, the road is expected to open up northern Kenya to trade, investment, and essential services, linking local markets to the greater Horn of Africa region.
Already, the project is changing lives in Isiolo, Kulamawe, and Garbatula, where communities that once faced isolation due to poor infrastructure are reaping social and economic benefits through improved access, employment and community development initiatives.
Kulamawe resident Isaack Boru said the project’s impact goes beyond road construction, citing investments in schools, health facilities and youth employment.
“Kulamawe and Dabasiti Primary Schools have benefited from new fencing and staff housing for the head teacher, while the local dispensary has also been fenced,” he said, adding that more than 70 youths from the area have secured skilled and unskilled jobs courtesy of the project.
Boru also noted that regular security patrols have improved safety along the construction corridor.
“We thank the government and the World Bank for this initiative. The presence of security officers has made this area much safer than before,” he added.
For healthcare workers and patients, the ongoing road improvement has been life-changing.
Community health promoter Amina Guyo said expectant mothers can now reach hospitals safely and faster.
“We used to lose many pregnant women and babies when ambulances or motorbikes got stuck in the mud during the rainy season. Now, even though the road isn’t fully complete, we can reach Isiolo County Referral Hospital or Garbatula Hospital faster and safely,” she said.
Guyo added that reduced travel time has improved emergency response and motivated health workers, who can now serve patients more efficiently.
Local traders are also reaping the benefits. Halkano Ali, a shop owner in Kulamawe, said the upgraded sections of the road have increased business activity in centres such as Kulamawe, Sericho, and Garbatula.
“Transport is now easier, faster, and more reliable. We’re getting more customers, including workers and suppliers. Transport costs have also dropped, allowing us to bring in more goods from Isiolo and other towns,” said Ali.
In Garbatula, youth leader Amin Kanu praised social programs linked to the project, including Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness and social inclusion training conducted by the Catholic Diocese of Isiolo.
“The sensitization sessions have taught our people to respect women, protect vulnerable groups, and coexist peacefully with workers from other communities,” he said.
Isiolo County Commissioner, David Kiprop, expressed confidence in the project’s progress, noting that earlier challenges involving security and local employment have been resolved through collaboration between the contractor, administration, and community leaders.
“This project is vital for our region. It will enhance security, boost trade and create opportunities for our youth,” said Kiprop.
A team from the Government Delivery Unit (GDU), led by its head Sitati Olando, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that affected families are compensated within two weeks.
Dr. Sitati also announced that the project is expected to reach 60 percent completion by December 2025, describing it as more than just a road project.
“The Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project is a social and economic lifeline for pastoralist communities. By 2027, this road will have opened markets, improved access to essential services, and unlocked the immense potential of northern Kenya,” said Dr. Sitati.
The Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP) is a large-scale initiative to upgrade the 764-kilometre Isiolo–Mandera regional road to bitumen standards. It includes the installation of fiber optic cables and the development of a trade corridor connecting Kenya with Ethiopia and Somalia.
The World Bank has provided a $750 million International Development Association (IDA) credit for the project, which is being implemented by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).
By David Nduro
