The World Bank has finally completed its financing commitment for the multi-billion-shilling 740-kilometre Isiolo-Mandera highway, paving the way for the road's full upgrade.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

Speaking on Tuesday, September 8, Roads and Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar said the government is now targeting June 30, 2030, for completion of the highway.

According to the PS, the entire route is now fully funded through contributions from the World Bank, African Development Bank and Arab development funds.

The World Bank is financing 508 kilometres of the road , while AfDB is supporting the 142-kilometre Elwak-Rhamu section, with Arab development banks financing the 90-kilometre Samatar-Wajir section.

📌 What You Need to Know

The PS noted that more than 50 kilometres of the Ksh168 billion highway has already been laid with asphalt, with works continuing along various sections of the corridor.

"Works are already underway, with more than 50 kilometres of the road already on blacktop. Once completed, the improved corridor is expected to reduce travel times significantly," said the PS.

The highway is expected to connect Meru, Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera counties, linking communities to markets and creating a major transport link towards Ethiopia and Somalia.

Daghar made the remarks during the project’s Second Annual Monitoring and Evaluation Report Validation Workshop, where he urged implementing agencies to fast-track construction works.

“The project’s success should be measured not only in kilometres of road or fibre laid, but in the lives transformed, businesses created and improved access to schools, health facilities and other essential services,” he said.

Construction of the road has been ongoing since September 2022 , with the government now seeking to accelerate implementation ahead of the June 2030 deadline.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke