The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has commenced stakeholder engagement for the proposed construction of the Nyaru, Fluorspar, Kamkaya, Emsea, Biretwo –Murkutwo Junction Road, a major infrastructure project expected to transform connectivity and unlock economic potential in Elgeyo Marakwet County and the wider North Rift region.
A multi-agency delegation comprising officials from KeNHA, the African Development Bank, the National Treasury, the Ministry of Infrastructure, and project consultants held a consultative meeting with Governor Wisley Rotich at the county headquarters in Iten ahead of planned public participation forums.
The team, led by KeNHA Director of Development Eng. Henry Gakuru, is in the county to spearhead stakeholder consultations and prepare for community engagement on the road construction.
Governor Rotich welcomed the initiative, noting that the road project would serve as a critical enabler of socio-economic transformation in the region.
“We have requested the inclusion of complementary infrastructure such as boreholes, health facilities, markets, bridges, and spur roads as part of the project to catalyse productivity and improve livelihoods,” said Rotich.
He added that this integrated approach will ensure that the benefits of the road extend beyond transport to touch on water access, healthcare delivery, and local trade.
The proposed road corridor, which traverses key economic zones including Fluorspar, Emsea and Biretwo before linking to Murkutwo Junction, is expected to enhance mobility, facilitate trade, and improve access to essential services in previously underserved areas.
Eng. Gakuru emphasised that the project forms part of a broader national strategy to expand and interconnect road networks for optimal economic impact.
The project involves the expansion of our road network and integration with other upcoming roads to ensure seamless connectivity.
“We want to ensure that all roads being developed in the county are interconnected major roads so that there is economic benefit for our people,” he said.
He added that KeNHA, in collaboration with its development partners, is confident of delivering the project.
“We are very confident that we will be able to deliver this project with the support of the African Development Bank and the county government,” said Gakuru.
The governor noted that the road is poised to change the perception of Elgeyo Marakwet by positioning it as an economically viable region.
“This project is going to open up Elgeyo Marakwet and the entire North Rift region,” he stated. “It will change the way the county is being viewed, not just as a region affected by insecurity, but as one with strong economic potential.”
The stakeholder engagement process will include public participation forums across affected communities along the Nyaru–Fluorspar–Kamkaya–Emsea–Biretwo–Murkutwo Junction corridor to ensure inclusivity and compliance with statutory requirements.
Once completed, the road is expected to significantly boost agricultural productivity, ease the transportation of goods and services, and stimulate investment across multiple sectors in the region.
By Rennish Okong’o
