Makueni County is set to reap huge benefits from the construction of the proposed Usahihi Mombasa-Nairobi Express Way, an infrastructure project that will cost Sh455 billion.
Speaking when he paid a courtesy visit to Makueni Deputy Governor (DG) Monday, a representative of the company organising funding, Everstrong Capital, Mr Kyle McCarter, said that they have started stakeholder engagements in counties the express way will pass.
“The sponsor of the Usahihi Mombasa-Nairobi express way has started a tour of all counties stakeholder engagements and public participation to let people know how this is going to benefit them,” said McCarter.
“It is going to be the largest investment in Kenya and, to the extent Africa. The construction will take 3-4 years to complete and have 5 contractors who will be doing the works,” he added
However, he did not say when the works will start but noted it will start soon.
Ms Mulili said that they have waited for long for the construction of the express way saying they have told the contractor to ensure the residents of Makueni benefit by getting employment opportunities.
“We have waited for the construction of the road for long. As a county we have listened to them and given our views also. We have told them to ensure our people benefit from the job opportunities,” said Mulili.
Once the road is complete, it will improve transport along the over 400-kilometre distance between Nairobi and Mombasa and also decongest the current Mombasa-Nairobi Highway.
Present during the event were County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for the Department of Roads and Infrastructure Eng. Peter Mumo and his Environment and Devolution counterparts, Japheth Mang’oka and Nicolas Nzioka, respectively.
By Patrick Nyakundi
