President William Ruto has personally inspected the Sh100 billion Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project, delivering a stinging rebuke to critics who labeled the massive infrastructure plan a “white elephant.” Standing on the tarmac at Kula Mawe, the President declared the 750km Isiolo-Wajir-Mandera road a reality, not a myth.
The tour comes amidst political crossfire, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleging that construction had stalled due to unpaid dues. Ruto’s presence on the ground, accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, served as a visual rebuttal to these claims. With 40 per cent of the project now complete, the highway is set to be the single longest road project undertaken since independence, promising to unlock the economic potential of the marginalized North.
Connecting the Forgotten Frontier
For decades, Northern Kenya has been an afterthought in national development. This project changes that narrative. It is not just about asphalt; it is about integration, security, and food sustainability. The road is expected to:
- Reduce Travel Time: cutting days off the journey between Nairobi and Mandera.
- Boost Trade: opening up market access for livestock and produce from the region.
- Enhance Security: allowing rapid deployment of security forces in a volatile region.
Promise Kept
“When I announced the construction of this road in February 2025, it looked like a story… But here we are today,” Ruto stated triumphantly. He also confirmed that the 420km Isiolo-Garissa-Lamu road is on track, cementing his administration`s focus on the region.
Despite the political noise, the government maintains that contractors have been re-mobilized and funding secured. “If any part of Kenya is left behind, we are lesser, we are poorer,” the President concluded, framing the road as a bridge to national unity.
