The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced progress in the construction of three major highways linking seven counties in the Western, Nyanza, and Rift Valley regions of Kenya. The project, which spans an impressive 815 kilometres, is funded by a grant from the World Bank.

The three highways included in this initiative are the 365-kilometre Port Victoria-Nyamonye-Asembo Bay-Awasi-Katito route, the 350-kilometre Homa Bay-Mbita-Sori-Muhuru Bay road, and the 100-kilometre Chavakali-Kapsabet-Eldoret highway. These routes are expected to significantly improve access to markets and enhance connectivity between rural and urban centres.

KeNHA is currently inviting consulting companies to express interest in updating the environmental and social studies required before construction begins. This consultancy process is anticipated to take about six months before actual construction works commence. The government has received a grant from the World Bank for the proposed Lake Victoria Basin Development Project (LVBDP) and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

In addition to improving infrastructure, the highways are expected to reduce travel time and transport costs for farmers, traders, and businesspeople. KeNHA has emphasized that consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications, but they should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy.

Historically, the Lake Victoria region has faced logistical challenges that have hindered economic growth and development. This project is part of a long-term strategy to improve infrastructure in the area, which is crucial for fostering economic activities and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

KeNHA received an initial amount of about 800 million for the Lake Victoria Basin Development Project, which underscores the significance of this initiative in the broader context of national development. However, Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu has raised concerns, stating, “Value for money has not been realised,” highlighting the need for careful oversight and management of the project.

As the consultancy process unfolds, observers are keenly watching how the project will progress and what impact it will have on the local economy. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for the commencement of construction and the specific firms that will be selected for the consultancy work.

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In recent weeks, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has made significant strides in securing funding for expressway projects across the country. This development comes shortly after President William Ruto’s administration announced ambitious plans to construct several major highways, aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting economic growth in Kenya.

On March 24, 2026, KeNHA confirmed that it has secured funding from the World Bank as part of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project. This funding is expected to play a crucial role in the development of a comprehensive expressway network in Kenya, which will facilitate the movement of goods and people across the region.

The expressway network masterplan is designed to guide future investments in high-capacity highway routes, ensuring that the infrastructure meets the growing demands of the population and the economy. KeNHA has invited consulting firms to prepare this masterplan, indicating a proactive approach to planning and development.

According to KeNHA, “The government has received financing from the World Bank and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consultancy services for the Preparation of an Expressway Network Masterplan for Kenya.” This statement underscores the importance of the funding in laying the groundwork for future infrastructure projects.

Consulting firms interested in participating in this initiative must demonstrate a minimum of ten years of experience in highway engineering or related fields. The assignment for the masterplan is expected to run for nine months, with expressions of interest required to be submitted by April 10, 2026. The selection process will utilize the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method, ensuring that the most qualified consultants are chosen for the task.

The expressway projects include significant undertakings such as the Nairobi-Thika expressway, which spans 60 kilometers, and the Lake Victoria ring road, projected to cover 500 kilometers. These projects are expected to enhance trade and travel within the region, contributing to economic development.

In a related development, the World Bank recently imposed a 21-month ban on PwC Kenya due to misconduct related to a separate electricity project worth 149.8 billion Shillings. This debarment affects PwC Associates, PwC Kenya, and PwC Rwanda, making them ineligible for participation in World Bank-financed operations and projects. The World Bank stated, “The settlement agreement provides for a reduced period of debarment in light of the companies’ admission of misconduct.” This situation highlights the importance of compliance in securing funding for infrastructure projects.

As KeNHA moves forward with the expressway funding and planning, the implications of these developments are significant for the future of transportation infrastructure in Kenya. The successful implementation of the expressway network masterplan could transform the nation’s highway system, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

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