KeNHA Clarifies Awarding Nairobi–Mau Summit Highway to NSSF and Chinese Firm

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued an update on the progress of the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Highway project, revealing that the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Committee has not yet approved the award for implementation.

In a statement on November 5, KeNHA explained that following a review by the PPP Committee under the National Treasury, it was concurred that the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and the National Social Security Fund Trustees (NSSF) Consortium emerged as the preferred proponent, based on the recommendations made.

However, KeNHA clarified that the Committee’s concurrence does not amount to final approval but rather permits the Authority to commence negotiations with the preferred bidder as part of the ongoing PPP process.

“Kindly note that the PPP Committee has not yet approved the award for implementation of the Project,” read part of the statement.

“The concurrence granted, only allows KeNHA to commence negotiations with the Preferred Proponent in line with the PPP process. This is the process that is currently ongoing.”

The authority further assured the public that the project’s implementation will be guided by transparency and accountability at every stage, with all progress updates and decisions disclosed in accordance with the PPP Act.

KeNHA Outlines How the Tolling Model Will Work

The Authority said the project will be implemented under a tolling model guided by the proposed National Tolling Policy (2025), which provides a framework for applying tolls to fund the development, maintenance, and rehabilitation of key road corridors.

“The Policy ensures that tolling remains transparent, interoperable, fair, and equitable,” KeNHA stated, adding that tolls will apply to new or improved roads carrying high volumes of passenger and freight traffic, particularly those vital to trade and connectivity.

KeNHA noted that the National Tolling Policy (2025) is still under development and has undergone extensive consultations with stakeholders and the public between June 2024 and March 2025.

Also Read: National Treasury Approves Two Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Road Proposals

Under the proposed plan, road users will be required to pay toll fees determined through an approved tariff framework.

KeNHA assured that the rates will be regulated to ensure affordability, transparency, and sustainability, while enabling the private partner to recover investment and maintenance costs during the concession period.

“The Government of Kenya, through KeNHA, intends to implement this project under a tolling model that balances affordability for users and sustainability for investors,” the Authority stated.

Also Read: KeNHA Discloses Companies Eyeing Lucrative Nairobi–Nakuru Highway Deal

Alternative Routes

Additionally, KeNHA confirmed that alternative routes will be made available from Rironi to Mau Summit for road users who prefer not to use the toll road.

“The usage of the toll road shall be cheaper as there will be resultant savings in travel times, vehicle operating costs, and safety,” KeNHA said.

“We assure the public that the project will be executed in a manner that upholds public interest, promotes economic efficiency, and delivers a safe, reliable, and sustainable road infrastructure for the present and future generations,” KeNHA added.

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