The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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President William Ruto on Wednesday said he was pleased with the progress made on the 750-kilometre Isiolo-Wajir-Mandera road project.
The President, accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, toured the Kula Mawe–Modogashe section to assess the ongoing construction works.
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His visit came a day after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleged that construction on several sections of the highway had stalled for three months due to funding constraints. Gachagua claimed workers had not been paid, leading to a slowdown in activities.
However, President Ruto dismissed the concerns, stating that the Sh100 billion project is now 40 per cent complete and advancing steadily, contrary to claims by critics who doubted its feasibility.
“When I announced the construction of this road in February 2025, many thought it was just talk. Some even said it was impossible. But today, you can see the progress,” he said.
Dubbed the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project, the highway is the longest road undertaking in Kenya since independence.
Ruto described the project as part of the government’s efforts to address long-standing marginalisation in northern Kenya by improving connectivity and unlocking economic potential.
“If any part of Kenya is left behind, we are all poorer. By linking every region, we are maximising the country’s potential,” he said.
He added that developing infrastructure in the Northern Frontier is key to boosting food security and driving national growth.
The President also noted that the 420km Isiolo-Garissa-Lamu road, valued at KSh27 billion, is progressing as planned.
He assured residents that both road projects would move forward despite political criticism, adding that they are among 6,000 kilometres of roads currently under construction nationwide.
Ruto said the government had re-engaged contractors who had previously suspended work due to unpaid bills in 2021 and 2022, with plans to complete all stalled projects by next year.
Looking ahead, he revealed that 28,000 kilometres of roads have been earmarked for tarmacking in the next phase, including 1,000 kilometres in northern Kenya.
Last December, Ruto disclosed that two segments of the highway — the 67km Modogashe-Samatar stretch and the 75km Rhamu-Mandera section — were initially under an annuity financing model. He said those contracts were ended amicably to allow fresh funding negotiations with the World Bank.
He indicated that Cabinet approval would pave the way for procurement, with the two sections expected to be incorporated into the main project.
