President William Ruto officially launched the long-awaited Rironi–Mau Summit Road at Kamandura, Kiambu County, marking a milestone in Kenya’s infrastructure development and regional connectivity.
“This road is more than a highway; it is a gateway to prosperity, unity, and transformation. It demonstrates the power of smart governance in partnership with the private sector,” President Ruto said during the launch, which also drew Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Davis Chirchir, Principal Secretary for Roads Eng. Joseph Mbugua, and other government officials.
The project, implemented through a public–private partnership between China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), covers Phase I of the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit (A8) Road and Nairobi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha (A8 South) Road.
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It spans 139 kilometres from Nairobi to Gilgil and Naivasha and is set to be completed within two years, at a cost of USD 863 million, followed by a 28-year operational period.
Samuel Kigamba, a resident of Ngarariga in Limuru, says the new road represents hope for both safety and economic opportunity.
“This is the road that brings traders who come to Nairobi to collect goods and take them back to the rural areas,” he said.
“During traffic jams, many accidents occur. Sometimes five or even ten vehicles crash into each other from behind, which makes the traffic jam even worse. So we thank the government for this project.”
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, featuring grade-separated interchanges, overpasses, and underpasses to enhance traffic flow and safety.
Also Read: Ruto Announces Construction of Nairobi-Thika Expressway
President Ruto emphasised that earlier proposals for a two-lane upgrade were inadequate to meet rising traffic volumes and economic demands.
Two contractors will work simultaneously from Rironi and Gilgil to ensure timely delivery, with completion targeted for Madaraka Day 2027.
The project is expected to reduce travel time, lower vehicle operating costs, boost safety, and unlock markets for farmers, traders, and businesses along the corridor.
“This road benefits Kenyan citizens greatly,” Kigamba added. “It connects to western Kenya, Uganda, and beyond. Once completed, we will be very happy.”
The Rironi–Mau Summit Road forms part of Kenya Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, rural development, and regional integration.
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