- President William Ruto has announced a series of large-scale road, rail, airport, and energy projects expected to begin from 2026, aimed at easing traffic congestion, boosting trade, and modernising Kenya’s transport network.
- President William Ruto has outlined an ambitious infrastructure agenda that will see multi-billion-shilling projects take shape across the country starting early 2026.
Speaking during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium, the President said improved transport systems are key to supporting economic growth and strengthening regional connectivity.
Among the major projects announced is the proposed 60-kilometre Nairobi–Thika Expressway.
The road will branch from the Nairobi Expressway at Museum Hill and extend to Thika town. Ruto said construction is expected to start in 2026 and will help reduce congestion along the heavily used Thika Superhighway.
The President also reiterated plans for the 525-kilometre Nairobi–Mombasa Usahihi Expressway, a six-lane highway valued at USD 3.5 billion.
Once completed, the road will run parallel to the existing highway and significantly cut travel time between Nairobi and the Coast.
Another key project is the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Expressway, which includes upgrades to: The Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Road, The Nairobi–Mai Mahiu–Naivasha Road
Both routes will be expanded into modern dual carriageways to improve safety and trade flow along the Northern Corridor.
Ruto also announced plans to upgrade the road connecting JKIA to ABC Place via Uhuru Highway and Waiyaki Way.
The project will include beautification works to match the standards of the Nairobi Expressway and help ease congestion on the busy route.
In northern Kenya, construction of the Isiolo–Mandera Highway under the LAPSSET programme is progressing in phases.
KeNHA plans to begin the Modogashe–Samatar and Rhamu–Mandera sections, while the Isiolo–Modogashe stretch nears completion with support from the World Bank.
In Western Kenya, the government has launched several road projects, including: Kakamega Airstrip–Shinyalu–Chepsonoi Road, Turbo–Sikhendu Road in Lugari
The roads are expected to improve transport and boost local economies.
The 19-kilometre Rusinga Ring Road, completed in December 2025, is the first fully tarmacked road on the island and is expected to improve access and economic activity.
Beyond roads, the government plans to extend the SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu and later to Malaba starting in January 2026.
JKIA, the Port of Mombasa, and the Port of Lamu are also set for modernisation through public-private partnerships.
In the energy sector, construction of new electricity transmission lines worth Sh40.4 billion is expected to begin by August 2026.
Ruto further revealed plans for a new international airport in Nairobi, estimated to cost USD 2 billion, to be developed through a PPP model.
The government also plans to install a canopy at Nyayo National Stadium as part of sports infrastructure upgrades.
According to the President, the government plans to dual 2,500 kilometres of highways and tarmac 28,000 kilometres of roads over the next ten years.
With most projects set to roll out from 2026, the government says the investments are aimed at improving mobility, supporting trade, and driving long-term economic growth.
