The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced fresh progress on the construction of three major highways set to transform connectivity across western Kenya, Nyanza, and parts of the Rift Valley.
In an update released on Tuesday, the agency confirmed that the ambitious 815-kilometre road project is moving forward under the Lake Victoria Basin Development Project, backed by funding from the World Bank.
According to KeNHA, part of the funding will go toward critical preparatory work, including the review and update of environmental and social assessments before full-scale construction begins.
Major roads set to transform regional connectivity
The infrastructure programme spans seven counties—Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Vihiga, Nandi, and Uasin Gishu—linking key economic and agricultural zones.
Among the flagship roads in the plan is the 365-kilometre Port Victoria–Nyamonye–Asembo Bay–Awasi–Katito route, alongside the 350-kilometre Homa Bay–Mbita–Sori–Muhuru Bay corridor. The third road, a 100-kilometre stretch connecting Chavakali, Kapsabet, and Eldoret, is also expected to play a crucial role in easing transport across the regions.
KeNHA said these highways are designed to enhance movement between rural production zones and urban markets, opening up the Lake Victoria basin for trade and investment.
Consultancy phase to pave way for construction
Before ground-breaking begins, the authority has invited consulting firms to submit expressions of interest to undertake updated Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) and Resettlement Action Plans (RAP).
“This process is essential to ensure that the project aligns with current environmental standards and community needs,” KeNHA noted.
The consultancy phase is expected to take approximately six months and will incorporate revised road designs, reflecting updated infrastructure requirements and population dynamics along the proposed routes.
Firms participating in the tendering process have also been encouraged to form joint ventures or partnerships to strengthen their technical capacity, with selection to follow international procurement guidelines.
Boost for trade, agriculture, and local economies
Once completed, the road network is expected to significantly reduce travel time and transport costs, particularly for farmers and traders operating within the Lake Victoria region.
Improved road access is also likely to stimulate local economies by enhancing the movement of goods and services, while attracting new investments in logistics, agriculture, and small-scale industries.
Transport experts say better connectivity could unlock the economic potential of previously underserved areas, especially those near border points and fishing zones around Lake Victoria.
Strategic investment in national infrastructure
The project forms part of the government’s broader infrastructure agenda aimed at strengthening regional integration and boosting economic growth.
KeNHA indicated that the roads will not only support domestic trade but also improve cross-border linkages with neighbouring countries, positioning Kenya as a key transport hub in East Africa.
With funding already secured and preparatory processes underway, attention now shifts to the completion of technical studies that will determine the final rollout timeline.
