Sh12.5billion Isiolo–Kulamawe-Garbatulla-Modogashe road on course
The visit covered Lot 1 and Lot 2 of the project, stretching 218 kilometres from Isiolo through Kulamawe and Garbatula to Modogashe at a cost of Sh12.5billion
Acting head of the Government Delivery Unit (GDU) Olando Sitati has concluded a two-day inspection and stakeholder engagement in Isiolo County with a call for renewed urgency and collaboration among implementing agencies to accelerate the completion of the Isiolo–Kulamawe-Garbatulla-Modogashe road, a key infrastructure project under the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP).
The visit covered Lot 1 and Lot 2 of the project, stretching 218 kilometres from Isiolo through Kulamawe and Garbatula to Modogashe at a cost of Sh12.5billion.
The project is part of a transformative agenda under Vision 2030’s LAPPSET framework.
Jointly funded by the Government of Kenya and the World Bank, the HoAGDP is a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing key transport infrastructure, boosting trade, and fostering socio-economic growth across Northern Kenya and the wider Horn of Africa.
The project is being implemented by the China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd at a cost of Sh12.5billion and involves upgrading 77 kilometres of the Isiolo–Kulamawe section and laying a fibre optic cable along the corridor. The works currently stand at 45 per cent completion.
The contractor has been directed to deliver over 60km of tarmac and key bridges by year-end, with full completion expected in 2026.
During the inspection, the GDU team reviewed progress on earthworks, culverts, bridge construction, and service works, accompanied by Isiolo County Commissioner David Kiprop, Resident Engineer Mr. Joash Ochieng, Isiolo County Police Commander Mr. Paul Wambugu, National Land Commission Officer Zahra Ahmed, and other county officials.
Speaking during the site visit, Sitati lauded the quality of ongoing works but emphasized the need for faster execution.
“This is a flagship national project with immense economic and social value. We must overcome bottlenecks through collaboration, accountability, and urgency. Our focus is delivery,” he said.
He urged the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to take full ownership of the project and fast-track pending land compensation and community sensitisation exercises to maintain public trust and ensure timely completion.
Mr. Sitati identified insecurity and delayed land compensation as key challenges affecting progress and called for close coordination among security agencies to safeguard the project corridor.
He underscored the importance of community engagement, saying that project benefits must be equitable and well understood by local residents. Alongside the road, the project is uplifting communities through investments in water, health, education, TVET, and security, with land compensation payments set to begin within two weeks.
“Security installations, including police stations along the corridor, are essential to sustaining progress and protecting investments,” he added.
Mr. Sitati further directed GDU Regional Lead Mr. Duncan Mwariri to prioritize complementary initiatives such as affordable housing and student hostels in Isiolo as part of the region’s wider development strategy.
He also proposed the use of mini power grids in the Garbatula section to expand access to electricity and called for partnerships with Kenya Power and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) to expedite connectivity.
During the visit, the GDU team engaged local leaders, contractors, and residents, who expressed optimism that the project would transform livelihoods by improving access to markets, enhancing security, and creating new opportunities for enterprise.
Isiolo County Commissioner David Kiprop commended the project’s progress, noting the strong collaboration between implementing agencies and local authorities despite logistical challenges.
“The project team has demonstrated resilience and quality workmanship. With continued coordination, we will deliver this corridor on schedule,” said Kiprop.
The GDU, which operates under the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Delivery and Government Efficiency, continues to inspect, verify, and fast-track national projects across the country to ensure efficient delivery, transparency, and impact for citizens.
Once completed in March 2026, the Isiolo–Kulamawe-Garbatulla-Modogashe road will serve as a strategic economic lifeline for Northern Kenya, linking communities, strengthening trade networks, and unlocking the region’s vast economic potential.
