Mombasa Road set for rapid makeover as President Ruto unveils reconstruction plan

President William Ruto has announced that reconstruction and beautification works along Mombasa Road, stretching from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to ABC, will commence this month. 

The initiative, he said, aims to enhance road safety, ease traffic flow, and improve the aesthetic appeal of one of Kenya’s busiest highways.

Ruto acknowledged the challenges motorists have faced on the lower deck of the Mombasa Road Expressway.

"Kwa sababu barabara ya Expressway imekamilika na wananchi wanatumia pale juu, barabara ya chini iko na matatizo na ndiyo sababu kuanzia hii Disemba mkienda krisimasi tutajenga upya na tuifanyie beautification ndiyo Nairobi ionekane kama city ya taifa letu," he said.

(Now that the Expressway is complete and people are using the upper lanes, the lower road has experienced problems. That is why, starting this December, as we approach Christmas, we will reconstruct and beautify it so that Nairobi can truly reflect the status of our nation).

Construction of the Expressway started in October 2019. 

It was opened to the public on a trial basis and then formally opened around late 2023.

Following its opening, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) initiated rehabilitation and recarpeting works on the lower deck to fix damage and improve the surface that deteriorated during the construction of the elevated road. 

Speaking during the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium, the Head of State also recognised the long-standing difficulties residents from Rongai and Ngong have endured commuting to and from the city due to heavy traffic congestion.

He announced that the two roads will be upgraded to dual carriageways starting next year. 

The stretch to Rongai will run from Bomas of Kenya all the way to Kiserian, while the Ngong route will extend from Bomas to Karen, through Bulbul, and onward to Kiserian.

"I would like to announce that starting next year, we will make the road a dual carriageway, so that residents there can travel more easily,” he stated.

Rongai road (Bomas‑Ongata Rongai‑Kiserian/Magadi Road) is one of the busiest commuter corridors connecting Nairobi to the fast‑growing suburbs of Ongata Rongai, Kiserian and beyond.

Due to its narrow existing carriageway and high vehicle volumes, especially during morning and evening peak hours, motorists frequently experience long traffic jams and slow travel times. 

Dualling the road is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance safety for commuters once completed.

Ghana's President John Mahama was among the dignitaries invited to grace this year's celebrations.