President William Ruto has launched a Sh3.1 billion road project expected to improve transport, connect tea-growing communities to markets and strengthen access to agricultural research facilities in Kipkelion East, Kericho County.
The President broke ground for the 53-kilometre Sabunit–Kapkondor/Furaha–Hill Tea Access Road on Thursday, September 10, 2026, during his four-day tour of Bomet and Kericho counties.
The project is expected to take 24 months to complete, with construction machinery already deployed to begin the works.
Road to connect key tea-growing areas
The new road will link several communities and economic centres, including Furaha, Chepsion, Kapkondor and Hill Tea Junction, improving movement between the tea-growing areas and surrounding communities.
A five-kilometre section will also connect the main road to the Tea Research Centre, providing another important link for farmers, researchers, workers and residents in the area.
The road is expected to improve the movement of tea and other agricultural produce while reducing transport difficulties for communities that rely on the corridor for access to markets and essential services.
Its construction forms part of the government’s wider push to improve road connectivity in rural areas and strengthen infrastructure around key economic activities.
What the project means for tea farmers
For communities in Kipkelion East, reliable roads are closely linked to agricultural productivity.
Tea is a major economic activity in the area, supporting farmers, workers, traders and businesses along the value chain. Improved road infrastructure can make it easier to transport farm inputs and produce while improving access to markets and other services.
The connection to the Tea Research Centre could also strengthen the relationship between farmers and agricultural research services by making the facility more accessible.
Beyond tea, the improved road network is expected to benefit households and businesses by supporting easier movement of people and goods across the area.
Ruto flags off construction
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Ruto unveiled the project information board before flagging off construction equipment, formally marking the start of the works.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot and other national and local leaders accompanied the President during the launch.
The project is among several infrastructure initiatives being launched or commissioned during Ruto’s ongoing tour of Bomet and Kericho counties.
The President began the four-day tour on Wednesday, September 9, and is expected to continue inspecting development projects and engaging residents and local leaders.
Wider focus on rural connectivity
The road project reflects the government’s broader emphasis on upgrading transport infrastructure to support economic activity outside major urban centres.
For Kericho’s tea-growing communities, the expected benefits go beyond a smoother journey. The new corridor could improve access to markets, agricultural services and economic opportunities while strengthening links between farming areas and key institutions.
Once completed, the 53-kilometre road and its connection to the Tea Research Centre are expected to provide a more reliable transport network for residents and businesses across Kipkelion East.
