The Mau Summit-Eldoret-Malaba highway is undergoing a significant upgrade. This project will transform the existing road into a four-lane corridor. It aims to enhance cargo movement between Kenya and its East African neighbors, including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The highway spans 243 kilometers. It currently serves over 3,000 trucks daily, which transport more than 35 million tonnes of cargo each year. The upgrade will convert it into an access-controlled tolled road under a Public-Private Partnership model. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is responsible for implementing this project.
Funding for the upgrade comes from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The project is currently in the feasibility study phase, which began in November 2025. Competitive bidding will follow once these studies are complete.
The upgrade is crucial for reducing congestion on roads leading to the port of Mombasa. Improved infrastructure will facilitate smoother cargo movement to neighboring countries. This change is expected to significantly benefit regional trade and economic activity.
Yet, the final cost of the project remains undetermined. Estimates suggest that it could reach Ksh130 billion. The government has not announced toll charges yet, but users will likely contribute to cost recovery once the road becomes operational.
Meanwhile, another related project—the Nairobi-Rironi-Mau Summit highway—is under construction. This 175-kilometer stretch is expected to be completed by June 2027. Both projects are part of broader government efforts to enhance the northern corridor route.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific timelines for the Mau Summit-Malaba Toll Road’s completion. Stakeholders are closely monitoring developments as they unfold.
