Why Rironi-Mau Summit Highway Is Racing Ahead of Nairobi-Mombasa Road Project

Kenya’s road projects are moving at different speeds, construction is progressing on the Rironi–Mau Summit Highway, while the Nairobi–Mombasa upgrade remains in procurement.

The contrast has raised questions about the role of Chinese contractors however, financing, preparation and design changes offer a clearer explanation.

Launched by President William Ruto in November 2025, the 233 kilometre Rironi–Nakuru–Mau Summit programme is being delivered through partnerships involving China Road and Bridge Corporation, the National Social Security Fund and Shandong Hi-Speed Road and Bridge International.

China Road and Bridge Corporation, working with the pension fund, is handling 139 kilometres, while Shandong is responsible for 94 kilometres between Gilgil, Nakuru and Mau Summit.

The agreements secured private financing before construction began, the funding structure comprises 75 per cent debt and 25 per cent equity, with investors recovering costs through tolls over 28 years.

The Nairobi–Mombasa project followed a different path, an earlier proposal by United States based Everstrong Capital for a new 419 kilometre expressway was rejected in July 2025 over concerns about financing, technical capacity and commercial viability.

Land acquisition costs and the withdrawal of engineering partner Mota-Engil complicated the plan.

In July 2026, the government changed direction, opting to upgrade the existing 461 kilometre highway into a minimum four lane, access controlled toll road, an adviser will assess its design and financing before investors are invited.

The revised design aims to reduce land costs by using the existing road reserve, the Rironi project has advanced because its financing and concession arrangements were secured earlier, while the Nairobi–Mombasa plan is being restructured.

The Rironi corridor has also faced challenges. Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir recently pushed the expected opening of the Rironi–Naivasha section from October to December 2026 after contractors missed the earlier target.

The comparison shows that nationality alone does not determine progress, preparation, financing and workable terms matter.

Sources; https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DaBz81qwd/

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