The Cabinet has approved additional financing to accelerate construction of two critical sections of the Isiolo-Mandera highway, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving transport infrastructure and connectivity across Northern Kenya.
The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, where ministers endorsed additional funding for the 67-kilometre Modogashe-Samatar section and the 76-kilometre Rhamu-Mandera stretch.
The two road segments form part of the 750-kilometre Isiolo-Mandera corridor, one of Kenya’s flagship infrastructure projects aimed at opening up the northern region through improved transport networks and enhanced regional integration.
Funding expected to speed up construction
According to the Cabinet, the additional financing will help accelerate ongoing construction works while improving movement of people and goods across the region.
The government says completion of the road will strengthen trade, ease access to public services and improve mobility for communities living along the corridor.
The latest funding approval comes months after the National Land Commission (NLC) initiated compulsory land acquisition for parts of the project to pave the way for construction.
Land acquisition process underway
In a Gazette Notice published on May 29 on behalf of the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the National Land Commission announced amendments to parcels earmarked for acquisition along the project route.
The notice covered the 77-kilometre Isiolo-Kulamawe section, which passes through Isiolo and Meru counties.
Besides the highway itself, the acquisition will also facilitate installation of fibre optic infrastructure alongside the road corridor to improve digital connectivity in the region.
Transforming Northern Kenya
Once completed, the highway is expected to significantly reduce travel time between towns across Northern Kenya, making transportation more efficient for residents, businesses and public institutions.
The improved road network is also expected to increase access to healthcare facilities, schools and markets in areas that have historically faced transport challenges due to poor infrastructure.
Government projections indicate the corridor will stimulate economic growth by opening up new trade opportunities while strengthening security operations through improved accessibility.
Boosting regional trade
The government believes the highway will play a key role in expanding cross-border trade within the Horn of Africa by connecting Kenya more efficiently with neighbouring markets.
Officials also say the project will reinforce Kenya’s ambition of becoming a regional logistics and transport hub through better infrastructure linking northern counties with major economic corridors.
The targeted land acquisition covers properties within Isiolo Township, Igembe North, Amwathi Mutuati and other sections along the project route in Isiolo and Meru counties, as authorities move to accelerate implementation of the broader highway programme.
