Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has outlined the significance of the ongoing upgrade of the Rironi–Naivasha–Gilgil (A8) and Rironi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha (A8 South) roads, describing the project as a transformative intervention along Kenya’s busiest transport artery.
The two strategic branches of the Northern Corridor, currently under expansion by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), were launched by President William Samoei Ruto in November 2025. The project covers a combined stretch of 139 kilometres and is scheduled for completion by April 2027.
The 81-kilometre Rironi–Gilgil section is expected to be delivered by mid-2026.
Expanding capacity to end gridlock
Originating at Rironi in Kiambu County, the corridors diverge across the Rift Valley, linking Nairobi to Nakuru and onward to Western Kenya. The expansion into a four- to six-lane dual carriageway is aimed at addressing chronic congestion that has plagued the route for years.
Omollo noted that the upgrade is designed to drastically reduce travel time and improve safety along the highway, which has long been associated with heavy traffic and frequent accidents.
Notorious blackspots such as Salgaa, as well as persistent gridlocks at Rironi, are expected to be eliminated through modern engineering standards, improved interchanges and better traffic flow management systems.
Boost for agriculture and local economies
Beyond easing traffic, the project carries substantial economic benefits. The corridor passes through high-production agricultural zones in the Rift Valley, where timely transportation is critical.
Improved infrastructure will facilitate faster delivery of fresh produce to Nairobi and other urban markets, reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening farm incomes.
During construction, thousands of direct and indirect jobs have been created. The project has also prioritised the use of locally sourced materials such as sand, gravel and cement, injecting revenue into surrounding communities and supporting local suppliers.
Strengthening Kenya’s regional trade role
Strategically, the enhanced dual carriageway is expected to reinforce Kenya’s position as a regional logistics hub. The Northern Corridor is a key trade route linking the Port of Mombasa to inland destinations, including Eldoret and the Malaba border.
Once complete, the upgraded highway will streamline cargo movement to Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, reducing transit times and lowering the cost of doing business across the region.
Omollo said the project represents a decisive step toward modernising Kenya’s road network while unlocking economic opportunities along one of the country’s most vital corridors.
