The multi-billion-shilling Kenol–Sagana–Marua highway project is nearing completion, with residents and businesses along the corridor already reporting major economic and transport benefits from the upgraded road network.
The 84-kilometre highway, being constructed by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), forms part of the Great North Road and the larger Trans-African Highway connecting Kenya to Ethiopia and other parts of the Horn of Africa.
Authorities say the project, estimated to cost about Sh9 billion, is now more than 99 per cent complete.
Highway expected to transform transport and trade
Construction of the highway began in 2020 but faced repeated delays linked to funding constraints before works resumed under the government’s securitisation programme introduced in 2025.
Once fully operational, the road is expected to ease congestion along one of Kenya’s busiest transport corridors while improving road safety and regional trade.
The upgraded highway links Kenol, Sagana and Marua towns and serves as a key transport route for both passenger and cargo movement between Central Kenya and northern trade corridors.
Residents say the project has already significantly improved traffic flow, particularly in areas that previously experienced frequent congestion and long travel delays.
Residents cite growing job opportunities
Hundreds of residents living along the corridor have reportedly benefited from temporary employment opportunities created by the construction works.
The project has employed casual labourers, drivers, machine operators, engineers and other skilled and unskilled workers across different sections of the highway.
Workers are currently engaged in drainage construction, interchange works, concrete laying and transportation of construction materials.
Francisco Kirogo, a local resident popularly known as “Sisco,” said the project had transformed movement between Sagana and Marua.
“This road project has really helped ease the congestion that used to be experienced between Sagana and Marua,” he said.
He added that many young people in nearby trading centres had secured jobs through the ongoing construction works.
“Young people are no longer just idle as they used to be. Many have found jobs here. Even those without formal qualifications are getting work and earning something to take home,” he said.
Traders and farmers expect economic boost
Small businesses operating along the corridor have also reported increased economic activity driven by the influx of construction workers and improved accessibility.
Traders say demand for food, accommodation and transport services has risen steadily since construction intensified.
Farmers in the region also expect the improved road network to reduce transportation costs and improve access to markets for agricultural produce such as tea, coffee and macadamia.
The road is expected to strengthen connectivity between rural production areas and urban markets, potentially boosting incomes for farmers and transporters.
Gitaru Interchange among key features
One of the major components of the project is the Gitaru Interchange, a grade-separated junction designed to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion along the busy corridor.
Residents say reduced travel times are already making movement easier for workers, traders and students who previously spent hours navigating traffic snarl-ups.
Transport stakeholders believe the highway will become one of the country’s most strategic economic corridors once fully completed.
The road is expected to further enhance regional integration by improving movement between Central Kenya, northern Kenya and neighbouring countries within the Horn of Africa trade network.
