The government’s plan to dual the Rironi–Mau Summit highway has been framed as a turning point for regional trade, with Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui describing the project as a critical investment that will reshape economic activity in the Rift Valley.
Kinyanjui issued the remarks in a public statement days after President William Ruto confirmed that the construction works will be launched on 28 November.
The 175-kilometre stretch linking Rironi to Mau Summit forms part of the Northern Corridor, the country’s most important transport network connecting Nairobi, Nakuru, Eldoret and the western region.
The road has long struggled with congestion due to rising traffic from farmers, transporters and tourism operators.
Past administrations have attempted to prioritise upgrades along the corridor, but delays in financing and procurement kept the project from moving forward.
In his statement posted on X, Kinyanjui said the dualling is expected to spur growth in multiple sectors, including trade, agriculture and tourism.
He noted that improving the route would ease movement of goods from western Kenya to central and coastal markets, creating a more predictable business environment for producers and small enterprises.
According to him, “the dualling of the Rironi–Mau Summit Road is a bold move that will unlock a critical trading corridor.”
The CS also commended President Ruto for what he termed a significant infrastructure partnership that aims to open new investment spaces across the country.
He added that the project aligns with the administration’s broader economic agenda, which places heavy emphasis on logistics efficiency, value chains and county-level development.
Kinyanjui pointed to Nakuru’s growing commercial profile, saying the county presents strong prospects for young people and entrepreneurs seeking new opportunities.
The upgrade comes at a time when Nakuru, Kenya’s fourth city, is becoming a major economic hub following increased investments in manufacturing, real estate and agribusiness.
Improved road networks are seen as essential to supporting its expansion and strengthening its position along the Nairobi–Eldoret axis, one of the country’s most politically and economically active regions.
The Ministry of Transport has indicated that the upcoming works will address traffic flow and safety concerns along the route, though detailed timelines and contractor information are expected during the official launch ceremony.
Government officials say the expansion is intended to reduce travel delays and enhance trade efficiency across key Rift Valley counties.