The construction of the Rironi Nakuru Mau Summit Highway marks one of Kenya’s most ambitious road projects in recent years. This route links Nairobi to western Kenya and connects the country to Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan. The upgrade aims to ease congestion. It also aims to enhance safety and support economic growth across the region.
President William Ruto has confirmed that construction of the dual carriageway to begin on November 28, 2025. He made the announcement after meeting China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) President Zhang Bingman at State House, Nairobi. The President described the project as a transformative step for transport and trade between Nairobi and western Kenya
The planned works will transform the busy road into a modern dual carriageway. The President added that the government will also break ground on the 58 kilometre Rironi Maai Mahiu Naivasha dualling on the same day. He said the project will expand transport links and spur economic growth in Kenya’s southern regions. CCCC’s subsidiary, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), will handle the construction of both projects Engineers will add interchanges, better drainage, and updated traffic management systems.
One of the key features of the plan is the viaduct through Nakuru town. This elevated road will ease the heavy traffic that slows movement through the busy centre. The government also plans to upgrade the corridor beyond Mau Summit.
This expansion will improve links to Eldoret, Kericho, Kisumu, and the Malaba border. The dualling of the Rironi Naivasha Mau Summit corridor is expected to greatly improve mobility along one of East Africa’s most important trade routes. The upgrade will reduce travel time and support regional commerce.
A Complex Journey of Financing and Construction
The project has already seen early works. In October 2025, KeNHA closed the Njoro Mau Summit section for 22 days. Contractors carried out major pavement reconstruction to improve safety and strengthen the road. These closures show the scale of the project and the heavy use of the corridor by long-distance travellers and freight operators.
The National Treasury selected the China Road and Bridge Corporation and the NSSF Consortium to construct the road through a public–private partnership. The highway will operate as a toll road under a 30 year concession. It will also enjoy a 30 year tax exemption on toll revenue. The toll rate will rise by one per cent each year. However, the government has said that this charge may be reviewed to ensure long term affordability for road users.
The project’s financing model includes 75 per cent debt and 25 per cent equity. The NSSF’s participation represents a major local investment in national infrastructure. The consortium will bear all traffic and revenue risks. This approach protects taxpayers from potential revenue losses. The upgrade now stands as one of Kenya’s most significant road projects. Its construction will open a new chapter for transport, trade, and economic growth across the region
The upgrade promises wide economic benefits. A modern dual carriageway will cut travel time. It will reduce transport costs and support trade across major commercial zones. The project also supports Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals, which focus on better mobility to drive national growth.
The Mau Summit Road now stands out as a transformative project that will shape Kenya’s transport network for decades.
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