Former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has unveiled a strategic plan to address the chronic traffic congestion plaguing the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway. This vital transport corridor has recently experienced severe gridlocks, with motorists and travelers spending hours stuck due to unrelenting traffic.
In the past 24 hours alone, Nakuru-bound travelers have faced immense challenges navigating the highway. Social media platforms have been flooded with images depicting chaotic scenes, despite traffic police efforts to manage the situation.
Proposal for Dualling the Highway
Kuria, currently serving as a senior advisor at the Council of Economic Advisors in State House Nairobi, emphasized the need for immediate action. He highlighted that the highway’s current state necessitates dualling to enable the smooth flow of vehicles in both directions.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Kuria advocated for a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) as a sustainable way to expand the highway’s capacity. “The mess on the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway is proof that we need new approaches to infrastructure development. The Rironi-Mau Summit Dualling MUST be carried out on a PPP basis,” Kuria stated.
Challenges in Implementation
Kuria acknowledged the potential resistance such proposals often face. Drawing parallels to the controversial Adani Group PPP plan to modernize Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), he warned that skepticism among Kenyans might hinder progress. “Sadly, the same people stuck in the gridlock today will also oppose dualling using a private partner,” he added.
Immediate Measures by KeNHA
Meanwhile, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has stepped in to alleviate the situation. Traffic officers have been deployed to assist police in managing the flow of vehicles. Additionally, KeNHA has provided alternative routes to help motorists bypass the gridlock:
- Naivasha-Njabini-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru
- Flyover-Njabini-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru
- Ngong-Suswa-Narok-Mau Narok-Nakuru
In a statement, KeNHA assured travelers of their commitment to ensuring smoother and safer journeys. “The Authority, with the support of traffic police, is at hand to provide the necessary guidance and traffic control. Our aim is to ensure you reach your destination safely and without delays,” the statement read.
Looking Ahead
As traffic woes persist, Kuria’s proposal offers a long-term solution to a problem that affects thousands daily. Whether through public consensus or strategic partnerships, the need for innovative infrastructure development is clear.
