President William Ruto on Thursday officially launched the long-awaited Rironi–Mau Summit Road at Kamandura in Kiambu County, marking a major step forward in Kenya’s infrastructure development and regional connectivity.
Speaking at the launch, President Ruto described the project as a catalyst for economic growth and national unity, noting that it reflects the impact of effective governance and collaboration with the private sector.
The event was attended by Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Principal Secretary for Roads Eng. Joseph Mbugua, and other senior government officials.
The road is being implemented under a public–private partnership involving China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).
It covers Phase I of the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit (A8) Road and the Nairobi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha (A8 South) Road.
Stretching 139 kilometres from Nairobi to Gilgil and Naivasha, the project is expected to be completed within two years at a cost of USD 863 million, after which it will enter a 28-year operational phase.
Local residents have welcomed the project, citing improved safety and economic opportunities. Samuel Kigamba, a resident of Ngarariga in Limuru, said the road will ease the movement of goods between Nairobi and rural areas while significantly reducing accidents caused by traffic congestion.
Under the plan, the highway will be upgraded to a four-lane dual carriageway from Rironi to Naivasha and a six-lane dual carriageway from Naivasha to Nakuru.
The design includes grade-separated interchanges, overpasses, and underpasses to improve traffic flow and safety. President Ruto noted that earlier plans for a two-lane upgrade would not have met the growing traffic and economic needs.
Construction will be carried out simultaneously from Rironi and Gilgil to ensure timely completion, with the project targeted for delivery by Madaraka Day 2027.
Once completed, the road is expected to significantly reduce travel time, lower vehicle operating costs, improve road safety, and open up markets for farmers, traders, and businesses along the corridor. It will also strengthen links to western Kenya, Uganda, and the wider region.
The Rironi–Mau Summit Road is a key component of Kenya Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, rural development, and regional integration.
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