Workers at the section of the highway/COURTESY
The construction of the ambitious 749-kilometer Isiolo–Mandera highway is picking up pace, signaling renewed commitment by the government to improving infrastructure and connectivity in the northeastern region.
The highway, which links the four counties of Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera, has been underway for some time but recently gained national attention during President William Ruto’s tour of the region.
Kenyans were struck by the President’s deep understanding of the project, with many raising concerns about the government's commitment to truly implementing it.
"Ndio barabara itoke Mandera, ikuje Ramu, ikuje Garre, ikuje El-Wak, ikuje Kobo, ikuje pale Kotulo, ikuje Tarbat, ipitie hapa Wajir, iende Samatan, iteremke Modogashe, ifike Isiolo, iende Nairobi…” Ruto said in Isiolo.
The project has long been seen as a game-changer for the region’s development.
Spanning key towns including Rhamu, Gari, El Wak, Kobo, Kutulo, Tarbaj, Wajir, Samatar, and Modogashe, the road is a critical component of the Isiolo–Mandera Corridor.
It is expected to significantly improve movement of goods and people and enhance trade between Kenya and its neighbors, Somalia and Ethiopia.
Ongoing construction works at the highway/COURTESY Reaffirming his commitment to the project, the president said on February 19 that seven contractors were on-site to begin groundwork.
“I am committed to delivering on the road from Isiolo to Mandera because for a very long time, we have left Northern Kenya behind...," he said.
One of the most crucial developments is progress on the 140-kilometer El Wak–Rhamu section, supported by a Sh27.5 billion ($215 million) loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB).
This portion of the project had previously faced delays due to security concerns but has now resumed following the implementation of a detailed security plan by the government.
When completed, the highway will cut travel time from 4.7 to 3.2 hours and reduce vehicle operating costs.
This is expected to drive a 15 per cent increase in trade volumes across the region, from Sh25.7 billion to Sh29.5 billion annually.
Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale commended the President for his commitment to the region.
“Promise made and delivery ongoing. Thank you, Mr. President," he stated.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is leading the project’s implementation.
