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President William Ruto’s Economic Advisor, Moses Kuria, has proposed the dualling of the Nairobi-Nakuru highway through a public-private partnership (PPP) to tackle persistent traffic congestion, especially during peak periods such as the festive season.
In a statement released on Saturday, Kuria emphasized the need for a shift in the approach to infrastructure development, moving away from relying on public funds and debt financing. He pointed to the severe gridlocks experienced on the highway as a clear indication of the urgent need for new solutions.
“The mess on the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway is further proof that we need new approaches to infrastructure development. The Rironi-Mau Summit dualling must be carried out on a Public-Private Partnership basis,” Kuria said, stressing the importance of involving private partners in addressing the ongoing issues.
Kuria also urged Kenyans to back the initiative, warning that some may oppose the private sector’s involvement despite the critical need for expansion. “Sadly, the same people stuck in the gridlock today will also oppose the dualling using a private partner,” he added.
Gridlock During Festive Season Highlights Need for Action
The proposal comes after thousands of commuters were left stranded on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway on Friday due to a surge in vehicles as many Kenyans traveled upcountry for the holidays. By 10 p.m., traffic had eased on the Nairobi-Naivasha stretch, with police officers deployed to ensure smoother flow. However, congestion was further compounded by a stalled trailer on the Mai Mahiu route, which prompted additional efforts to clear the obstruction.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that reinforcements, including a helicopter, were brought in to manage the situation. Officers from various stations along the highway were mobilized to assist the Traffic Police Unit in clearing the congestion and restoring flow.
The National Police Service (NPS) also called on motorists to observe traffic regulations, including speed limits, avoiding overtaking, and ensuring their vehicles were roadworthy. Authorities stressed the importance of road safety and urged the public to cooperate with traffic officers to ease congestion.
Kuria’s call for a public-private partnership comes amid growing pressure to find lasting solutions to the traffic challenges that plague major highways, particularly during high-traffic periods like the festive season.
