The ongoing construction of the 122-kilometre Mamboleo–Miwani–Chemelil–Muhoroni–Kipsitet Road (C674) is expected to significantly transform transportation, trade and economic activity across Kisumu, Nandi and Kericho counties, while strengthening links within Kenya’s sugar-producing belt.
The strategic corridor, being implemented under the oversight of the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), is designed to improve regional connectivity, reduce transport costs and ease traffic congestion along some of Western Kenya’s busiest transport routes.
Speaking on the importance of the project, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo described the road as a critical investment that will unlock economic opportunities for communities across the three counties.
“This road is not just a transport corridor; it is an economic lifeline that will enhance trade, improve mobility and support livelihoods across the region,” said Omollo.
Boost for the Sugar Industry
The highway traverses one of Kenya’s most important sugar-producing zones, serving key milling centres including Miwani, Chemelil and Muhoroni sugar factories.
Constructed to a dense bitumen macadam standard capable of handling heavy commercial traffic, the road is expected to improve the movement of sugarcane from farms to factories while facilitating the transportation of refined sugar and other agricultural products to local and national markets.
Industry stakeholders have long cited poor road conditions as a major contributor to delays, increased vehicle maintenance costs and losses during transportation.
According to Omollo, the improved infrastructure will strengthen the competitiveness of the region’s agricultural sector.
“Our farmers and industries depend on efficient transport networks. By improving this corridor, we are lowering logistical challenges that have affected the movement of goods for many years,” he said.
Easing Traffic and Decongesting Kisumu
Beyond its role in supporting agriculture and industry, the corridor is expected to serve as a major transport bypass linking Nairobi and Western Kenya.
Heavy commercial trucks travelling between the two regions have traditionally passed through Ahero and sections of Kisumu City, contributing to congestion and increased travel times.
The new highway will provide an alternative route, diverting long-distance traffic away from urban centres while reducing pressure on existing roads.
Transport experts say the project will help decrease travel time, fuel consumption and vehicle operating costs for motorists and transport companies.
Omollo noted that the project aligns with broader government efforts to modernise transport infrastructure while supporting economic growth in counties outside Nairobi.
“Improved road infrastructure creates opportunities for investment, supports local businesses and strengthens regional integration. These are benefits that will be felt far beyond the immediate corridor,” he said.
Strengthening Regional Integration
The road also addresses long-standing bottlenecks along alternative routes through Awasi and neighbouring areas, which have experienced increasing traffic volumes over the years.
Once complete, the corridor is expected to improve access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and government services for thousands of residents living along the route.
For traders and transporters, the highway will create a more efficient link between Western Kenya and the country’s central transport network.
Analysts say the improved connectivity could stimulate growth in logistics, manufacturing, agribusiness and tourism sectors across the region.
Security Agencies Supporting Implementation
The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration is working closely with other government agencies to facilitate smooth implementation of the project.
The department is coordinating security operations, stakeholder engagement and enforcement of traffic management measures along the construction corridor to ensure minimal disruption to communities and road users.
Omollo emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects.
“Development projects of this magnitude require coordinated efforts among national government agencies, county governments, local leaders and communities. Our role is to ensure that implementation proceeds smoothly and safely for everyone involved,” he said.
As construction progresses, residents and businesses across Kisumu, Nandi and Kericho counties are optimistic that the highway will not only improve transport efficiency but also accelerate economic growth throughout the region.
