Mombasa: The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has allocated Sh4.3 billion from the Fuel Levy Securitization Fund to the National Land Commission (NLC) for compensating Project Affected Persons (PAPs) as part of the Multinational Bagamoyo-Tanga-Horohoro/Lunga Lunga-Malindi Road Project. This move is set to clear the path for faster construction activities.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project is funded by the African Development Bank, the European Union, and the government of Kenya, with a total budget of Sh15 billion. The completion of this project is anticipated to improve regional connectivity, enhance trade, and boost tourism. The compensation is intended to resolve land acquisition issues that have previously slowed progress, allowing contractors to accelerate their work.
KeNHA Deputy Director and Project Coordinator, Eng. Cleophas Makau, highlighted during a project inspection that the NLC has already conducted valuations for the PAPs, with Sh3.15 billion disbursed so far for land compensation. Eng. Makau stated, “The National Land Commission is progressing with the compensation of the PAPs. They have done quite a lot of compensation.”
The road project is divided into two sections: Lot 1, covering the Nyali Bridge-Mtwapa Bridge section, and Lot 2, covering the Mtwapa-Kwa Kadzengo-Kilifi section, each costing Sh7.5 billion. Currently, Lot 2 is 75 percent complete, with expectations to finish by March 2027. The work includes constructing dual carriageways, upgrading existing roads, and developing critical infrastructure such as bridges and market areas.
Progress on Lot 1, which began in November 2022, is at 56 percent completion and is expected to conclude by August 2027. The scope involves constructing a four-lane dual carriageway, service roads, and various transport facilities. Additionally, a drainage system and expanded market areas are part of the development plan.
Eng. Makau emphasized the project’s additional benefits, including market construction in Kilifi and Mombasa counties and training programs for unemployed youth in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale. Over 500 youth have already been trained through the project’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives.
The contractor has completed several sections, including the single carriageway from Kilifi to Kwa Kadzengo and part of the dual carriageway from Kwa Kadzengo to Majengo in Mtwapa. Efforts are ongoing to address the remaining urbanized areas and necessary compensations for trader relocations.
