The Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) is spearheading the construction of major highways in Mombasa and Kilifi counties, aiming to improve connectivity, enhance trade, and boost tourism in the region.
Mombasa Port Access Road Project
The 30.4-kilometer Mombasa Port Access Road, stretching from the Kwa Jomvu interchange to the Mariakani weighbridge, is progressing steadily, with 15% of the work completed. Once finished, the Sh10.4 billion project will reduce travel time along the northern corridor, making it more efficient for transporting goods.
Key features of the project include:
- Upgrading the current two-lane road to a four-lane dual carriageway.
- Climbing lanes and service lanes to improve access to residential and commercial areas.
- Grade-separated intersections, improved drainage systems, truck parking facilities, and weighbridges for axle-load control.
- Non-motorized transport facilities to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Despite traffic congestion between Mariakani and Mazera due to ongoing construction, KeNHA Deputy Director of Communication, Samwel Kumba, assured that traffic marshals have been deployed to manage vehicular movement.
“Within 35 months, the entire stretch will be dual carriage, resolving traffic issues and improving goods evacuation from Mombasa to the hinterland and beyond,” said Kumba during a project tour.
The project, expected to be completed by late 2026, is also set to increase land value along its route and improve access to social amenities.
Bagamoyo-Horohoro-Malindi Road Project
Another transformative project, the Sh15 billion Bagamoyo-Horohoro-Malindi Road, is advancing across Mombasa and Kilifi counties. This multinational initiative consists of two segments:
- Lot One (Mombasa County): From the Nyali Bridge to the Mtwapa Bridge, this segment features:
- Four dual carriageways with service lanes.
- Six grade-separated junctions and footbridges.
- Non-motorized traffic facilities.
- 12 kilometers of trunk drainage.
Additionally, the Mombasa County Government has allocated land to expand the Kongowea Market. Plans include planting 400 indigenous trees along the road corridor and setting up roadside amenities on Shimo la Tewa prison land. Currently, this section is 31% complete.
- Lot Two (Kilifi County): From Mtwapa to Kwa Kadzengo, this segment is 63% complete. Initially scheduled for completion in December 2024, the timeline has been extended to March 2025 to allow for the finalization of compensation processes along a 3.5-kilometer stretch.
Kumba urged motorists to cooperate with traffic marshals during diversions, noting that the inconveniences are temporary. “Once complete, travel time between Kilifi and Mombasa will reduce significantly,” he stated.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The improved road network is expected to significantly reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and provide seamless connectivity between the North and South Coast. This will bolster trade, tourism, and local economic growth.
Local taxi driver Suleiman Tuva commended the government for the improved roads. “Travel time from Mombasa to Kilifi has been cut drastically, and vehicle maintenance costs have reduced. The new roads are a game-changer for us,” he said.
The infrastructure projects underscore the government’s commitment to enhancing mobility, fostering economic development, and strengthening the region’s tourism potential.
