Kwa-Jomvu to Mariakani Road expansion set to boost trade and sustainability

The European Investment Bank (EIB Global), the German Development Bank (KfW), the European Union (EU) Delegation to Kenya, and the Kenyan government have officially launched a transformative road expansion project aimed at enhancing the Kwa-Jomvu to Mariakani section of road.

This upgrade, worth €140 million (Ksh 19 billion), will expand the existing two-lane road to a modern four and six-lane dual carriageway, fostering economic growth and sustainability in Kenya and the broader East African region.

This vital infrastructure project, located in the Mombasa-Mariakani area, forms a critical link between the port city and Nairobi. It is also a key part of the Northern Corridor, which connects Mombasa to Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, facilitating essential trade routes for landlocked nations. The road’s upgrade is expected to improve road safety, reduce emissions, and contribute to regional trade by enhancing transport efficiency.

The project is being financed through a collaborative effort under the EU’s Global Gateway initiative. Team Europe’s support includes €100 million in concessional loans from EIB Global and KfW, along with a €20 million grant from the EU and an additional €20 million contribution from the government.

Once completed, the upgraded road is projected to accommodate around 20,000 vehicles daily, benefiting local communities and enhancing transport operations. This will lead to reduced traffic congestion, shorter travel times, and lower vehicle operating costs. Moreover, the expansion is expected to significantly decrease emissions by promoting smoother traffic flow and reduced fuel consumption.

Speaking at the project’s launch, President William Ruto expressed gratitude for the support from Team Europe.

“I would like to thank our partners for their contribution to developing and expanding this crucial road infrastructure, which will ease the movement of goods to and from the port and enhance efficiency in regional trade.”

The EU’s Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Sikela, also praised the project, noting: “This is an excellent example of high-quality infrastructure delivered through the partnership between the Kenyan government and the European Union. Together, we are accelerating Kenya’s economic growth and strengthening trade cooperation within the East African Community.”

European Investment Bank Vice-President Thomas Östros said: “Sustainable transport is crucial for growth and inclusion, as it connects people and facilitates trade. This project integrates sustainability, safety, accessibility, and efficiency, helping to strengthen the Kenyan economy and its role in regional trade.”

Kristina Laarmann, Director of KfW in Nairobi, emphasised the broader economic impact of the project: “The Mombasa port is a key gateway for East Africa, and this project will enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and create jobs during and after construction. It will ultimately reduce transport costs, stimulate local businesses, and contribute to job creation.”

The Kwa-Jomvu-Mariakani road upgrade is part of a broader initiative to modernise the Northern Corridor, East Africa’s busiest trade route.

The project complements other ongoing and completed infrastructure upgrades under the EU’s Global Gateway transport investment, such as the Mombasa-Kilifi and Kitale-Morpus roads and the Isebania-Kisii-Ahero highway.

The expanded road will play a pivotal role in the EU’s broader strategy to develop twelve key strategic transport corridors across Africa as part of the €150 billion Global Gateway EU-Africa Investment package, aimed at boosting trade and sustainable growth across the continent.