The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has announced a Sh10 billion smart traffic management project targeting some of Nairobi’s busiest road junctions as part of efforts to tackle persistent congestion in the capital.
The project, funded through a loan from South Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), will see the introduction of intelligent transport technologies and major infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving traffic flow across the city.
According to KURA, the government secured a loan worth approximately USD 83.8 million to implement the Nairobi Intelligent Transport System (ITS) and Junctions Improvement Project Phase II.
“The Kenyan government has secured a USD 83.8 million loan from EDCF to finance the Nairobi Intelligent Transport System and Junctions Improvement Project Phase II,” KURA said.
Technology at the centre of congestion solution
The ambitious programme will focus on upgrading 60 strategic road junctions that have long been identified as major traffic bottlenecks.
As part of the project, authorities plan to install 60 modern traffic signal systems and an equal number of CCTV cameras to improve traffic monitoring and management.
The plan also includes the deployment of 13 Vehicle Detector Systems, two Variable Message Signs and 60 Vehicle Enforcement Systems designed to support real-time traffic control and enhance compliance with traffic regulations.
Officials say the technology-driven approach will allow traffic managers to respond more effectively to congestion, accidents and other disruptions affecting motorists.
Bridge upgrades and road improvements planned
Beyond traffic management systems, the project will include the construction of a new bridge and the expansion of two existing bridges within the city road network.
KURA disclosed that the works will be implemented under a design-and-build contract, with construction expected to take approximately 30 months.
The successful contractor will also be required to provide operational support and maintenance services for four years after completion to ensure the systems remain functional and effective.
The authority noted that the project forms part of broader efforts to modernize Nairobi’s transport infrastructure and improve mobility within the rapidly growing city.
South Korean firms invited to bid
KURA has opened the procurement process for the project, restricting participation to companies eligible under EDCF financing guidelines and registered in South Korea.
Interested firms have until August 4, 2026, to submit their bids.
The tender documents require bidders to provide a bid security of approximately Sh129 million.
Officials expect the project to attract significant interest from technology and infrastructure firms with experience in intelligent transport systems and urban mobility solutions.
Relief expected for Nairobi motorists
Traffic congestion remains one of Nairobi’s biggest urban challenges, with commuters regularly spending hours on the road during peak periods.
Major routes leading into and out of the Central Business District frequently experience gridlock, resulting in lost productivity, increased fuel consumption and higher transport costs.
KURA believes the introduction of smart traffic technologies, coupled with junction improvements, will help reduce travel times and improve efficiency within the city’s transport network.
If successfully implemented, the project could become one of the most significant traffic management upgrades undertaken in Nairobi in recent years, supporting the city’s broader vision of becoming a modern and technology-driven metropolis.
