Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said the ongoing upgrade of the 55-kilometre Mto Mwagodi–Msau–Mbale–Wundanyi–Werugha–Mgange–Bura Junction (A23) road to bitumen standards will significantly boost economic activity in Mwatate and parts of Wundanyi constituencies.
Speaking on Tuesday during an inspection tour of the project in Msau, Mwatate Constituency, Kindiki described the road as a critical infrastructure investment aimed at unlocking the region’s economic potential.
“The ongoing upgrading to bitumen standards of the 55 kilometre Mto Mwagodi–Msau–Mbale–Wundanyi–Werugha–Mgange–Bura Junction A23 will boost the economy of Mwatate Constituency and parts of Wundanyi Constituency,” Kindiki said.
He noted that improved road infrastructure would ease transport of agricultural produce, reduce travel time and open up rural areas to trade and investment.
Part of Sh15.6 billion roads investment
The Deputy President revealed that the project, being constructed at a cost of Sh2.1 billion, is part of a broader Sh15.6 billion allocation for road construction across Taita Taveta County.
“The key road being constructed at a cost of 2.1 billion shillings is part of 15.6 billion shillings released for road construction across Taita Taveta County, the largest investment in road construction for this area since independence,” he said.
Kindiki emphasized that the investment marks a historic milestone for the county, positioning it for accelerated development and improved connectivity.
He added that the government remains committed to equitable infrastructure development across all regions, particularly historically marginalised areas.
More roads planned under National Infrastructure Fund
During the inspection of ongoing works between Msau and Mwangea, Kindiki disclosed that additional road projects will be identified in collaboration with local leaders and residents.
“The Government will work with local leaders and residents to identify other roads to be prioritized for construction under the soon to be operationalized National Infrastructure Fund,” he stated.
The Deputy President said the upcoming fund will provide a structured financing mechanism to accelerate infrastructure rollout nationwide.
He was accompanied by Taita Taveta Woman Representative Haika Mizighi, Mwatate MP Peter Shake, Taveta MP John Bwire, Wundanyi MP Danson Mwashako, Members of County Assembly and other local leaders.
The road project is expected to enhance connectivity within Taita Taveta County, improve access to markets and social services, and stimulate economic growth in the region.
