The Ministry of Roads and Transport now says that the 740-kilometre Isiolo-Mandera highway will be completed by 2030, pushing the expected completion date from January 31, 2028.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

The revised timeline was announced on Wednesday, June 10, during an ongoing inspection tour of the Ksh168 billion highway being constructed under the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP).

Speaking during the inspection tour, project coordinator James Theuri expressed the government's commitment to the timely delivery of the project, at least by 2030.

He noted that the project became effective in December 2020 and is jointly financed by the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and other development partners.

📌 What You Need to Know

"This corridor is more than a road project. It is a strategic investment designed to unlock Northern Kenya's vast economic potential, deepen regional integration, and enhance cross-border trade," said Theuri.

He further disclosed that the project is expected to improve security, enhance government presence in previously underserved areas, and expand access to critical services for communities along the route.

Beyond the road expansion, the project also involves the installation of 1000 kilometres of fibre optic cable to boost digital connectivity across the region.

According to the project coordinator, the digital infrastructure is expected to support innovation, e-commerce, education, and improved delivery of public services.

"Once complete, the corridor is expected to lower transport costs, reduce travel time, facilitate movement of people and goods, and strengthen Kenya's role as a regional trade gateway," Theuri added.

The announcement comes just two months after the World Bank approved additional finances for the project following a consultative meeting with officials from the Ministry of Roads and Transport.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke