Makueni: Makueni County is set to reap huge benefits from the construction of the proposed Usahihi Mombasa-Nairobi Express Way, an infrastructure project that will cost Sh455 billion. Speaking when he paid a courtesy visit to Makueni Deputy Governor (DG) Monday, a representative of the company organising funding, Everstrong Capital, Mr. Kyle McCarter, said that they have started stakeholder engagements in counties the express way will pass.

According to Kenya News Agency, McCarter mentioned that the sponsor of the Usahihi Mombasa-Nairobi express way has initiated a tour of all counties for stakeholder engagements and public participation to inform people about the benefits of the project. He highlighted that it is going to be the largest investment in Kenya and, to a certain extent, Africa. The construction is expected to take 3-4 years to complete with five contractors handling the works.

However, McCarter did not specify the commencement date for the construction but assured that the works will begin soon. Makueni Deputy Governor Ms. Mulili emphasized the long-awaited construction and urged the contractor to ensure that the residents of Makueni benefit through employment opportunities generated by the project.

Ms. Mulili stated that the county has provided feedback and emphasized the need for local employment. The completion of the road is anticipated to enhance transport along the over 400-kilometer distance between Nairobi and Mombasa, while also alleviating congestion on the current Mombasa-Nairobi Highway.

The event was attended by County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for the Department of Roads and Infrastructure, Eng. Peter Mumo, along with his Environment and Devolution counterparts, Japheth Mang’oka and Nicolas Nzioka, respectively.