President William Ruto’s administration has intensified its infrastructure agenda across the Eastern Region, unveiling a series of strategic road projects aimed at improving connectivity, boosting trade, and enhancing access to key social amenities. From Meru to Kitui, the government has rolled out new construction works and major upgrades, signalling a renewed commitment to modernising the region’s transport network.
In Meru County, the government has identified several roads for upgrading to bitumen standards as part of a wider plan to ease movement across the county. The State Department for Transport highlighted key sections along the A2 corridor, including Kwa Mumero–Kithinthina Primary Junction, Timau–Rugirando–Nguishi Junction, Mia Moja Junction, and the Makutano–Xlewa–Mbuju–Ngare Dare stretch. These upgrades are expected to support agricultural transport, strengthen trade routes, and improve rural access.
A major development for the region is the planned reconstruction of the Nithi Bridge in Tharaka-Nithi County, a structure long considered one of Kenya’s most dangerous black spots. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently confirmed that the government has secured funding to redesign and rebuild the bridge, which has claimed hundreds of lives since it was first opened in 1985. The project aims to improve safety along the Meru–Nairobi Highway and restore public confidence in the busy route.
In Embu County, authorities have welcomed the proposed dualling of the expansive 145-kilometre Makutano–Embu–Meru Highway. President Ruto reaffirmed the national commitment during Mashujaa Day celebrations, announcing that the highway is part of a broader plan to dual at least 1,000 kilometres of major roads. Once completed, the project is expected to unlock economic potential across the Mt Kenya East region by reducing congestion and improving long-distance travel.
The President also made a significant stop in Isiolo County, where he commissioned the upgrading and performance-based maintenance of Isiolo Town Roads (Lot 2). The 6-kilometre package includes the Isiolo Airport–Mattercare Hospital Road, the Trojan–LMD Road, and the Catholic–IWASCO Water Kiosk link. The upgraded network aims to modernise road infrastructure within the rapidly expanding town, strengthening its position as a key gateway to northern Kenya.
In Machakos County, President Ruto kicked off two major road projects. The first is the Kivandini–Museleni Road, a KSh 1.25 billion upgrade set to be completed by 2027. The project is expected to transform agricultural transport, reduce post-harvest losses and improve access to health centres and schools. Also launched was the Kangundo–Mwala (B63) Road Project, beginning with the 13-kilometre Kangundo–Kivaani section. This route will link vital corridors such as the B105, B106, and the A3 highway, enhancing regional trade and mobility.
In Makueni County, the government’s tarmacking of the Emali–Ukia Road continues to take shape, with Phase One already flagged off during the Lower Eastern development tour. The project aims to improve movement between Emali town and surrounding areas, supporting economic activities while ensuring residents have better access to markets and public services.
President Ruto also launched a major road project in Kitui County—the Kamuwongo–Kandwia section of the Mwingi–Kamuwongo–Ciangera (B64) Road. The government-funded upgrade will improve connectivity across Mwingi North, easing travel between key towns and facilitating access to hospitals, schools, markets and security installations. The road is expected to significantly uplift local socio-economic activities by reducing travel time and enhancing safety.
Collectively, these projects underscore the administration’s strategy to strengthen infrastructure as a driver of economic development. By improving road networks across Eastern Kenya, the government aims to stimulate trade, create new opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents across the region.
