President William Ruto has announced that the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway will be upgraded to a dual carriageway, offering hope to motorists frustrated by persistent traffic congestion along the busy route.

Speaking during a church service at AIC Kipkorgot in Uasin Gishu County, the President revealed that construction will commence next year under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.

The project will roll out in two phases, with the first focusing on the Nairobi-Nakuru stretch, while the second will extend the dual carriageway to Malaba.

Ruto assured Kenyans that the delays experienced so far would not derail the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.

“The commitment I want to give you is that next year, we will begin the construction of the dual carriageway from Nairobi to Nakuru first, and then from Nakuru to Malaba,” he stated, addressing public anticipation for the much-needed upgrade.

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The President attributed earlier setbacks to a breach of contract by a French company previously engaged for the project.

“We had a PPP programme with a French company, but it did not work out. However, we have alternatives that we are working on as a government,” he disclosed.

According to Ruto, discussions with other private contractors are underway to ensure the project moves forward without further delays.

The announcement comes after recent traffic snarl-ups at key sections of the highway, including Rironi-Naivasha-Nakuru and Rironi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha.

These bottlenecks have heightened calls for swift action to address the increasing gridlock.

Meanwhile, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has advised motorists to exercise patience and use alternative routes where possible.

“The Authority, with the support of traffic police, are at hand to give the necessary guidance and traffic control for a smooth flow in a bid to ensure you reach your destinations safely and without delays,” KeNHA stated.

President Ruto also pledged to prioritise the completion of other stalled road projects across the country, urging Kenyans to remain patient as the government works to enhance the nation’s transport network.

The Nairobi-Nakuru Highway project is expected to significantly reduce travel times, improve safety, and boost economic activity once completed.