President William Ruto has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to developing infrastructure in Northern Kenya, stating that the region deserves the same opportunities as the rest of the country.
He emphasized that his administration is working on improving road networks, electricity, and water supply to ensure equal development across Kenya.
Speaking about infrastructure, President Ruto highlighted the construction of a 750 kilometer road from Isiolo to Mandera. He noted that the project, which aims to connect the North Eastern region with the rest of the country, is being funded by the World Bank, the African Development Bank, Arab financial institutions and the Kenyan government at a cost of Kshs 100 billion.
Nelson Amenya has raised concerns about the practicality of this commitment. He questioned how the government plans to commence such an ambitious project when other key road projects with more immediate economic impact remain untouched.
Amenya pointed out that the Tigoni Mau Summit highway, which spans 243 kilometers, has yet to see any construction activity.
Similarly, the Nairobi Mombasa expressway, covering 440 kilometers, has not broken ground. He wondered why the government is prioritizing a road in Northern Kenya while these crucial projects, which serve economically areas, remain stalled.
“What kind of business sense is that?” Amenya asked. “If these major highways which would boost trade and transport efficiency have not started, how can we trust that a 750 kilometer road in a region with less economic activity will begin?”
His remarks reflect growing skepticism about the government’s ability to deliver on major infrastructure promises, especially when past pledges remain unfulfilled.
