President Kenyatta launches Sh2.7B road project in Mombasa

President Kenyatta has launched a Sh2.7 billion road project, a key link between the port and the Moi International Airport.

The construction of Port Reitz/Moi International access road is a crucial link aimed at providing the necessary connection to the newly constructed second container terminal.

Speaking during the launch, President Kenyatta said when completed the road will increase investment and trade opportunities in the East and Central Africa region.

He also said apart from decongesting Mombasa city, it will also facilitate the growth of tourism.

“When the number of visitors to this city grows, more job opportunities will be created and the youth will benefit,” said the President.

The project is jointly funded by the British Government through TradeMark East Africa and the Government of Kenya.

The British Government will fund the construction at Sh2.7 billion, while Kenya will pay Sh2.5 billion for the compensation of land owners who have been moved to create room for the expansion of the road.

President Kemyatta thanked the British Government for working with the government on the project. He also thanked the Japanese government for funding an ongoing expansion project at the Mombasa port.

The Head of State pointed out that the port expansion would not be enough if roads within Mombasa city were not in good shape.

Other road projects within the coastal city, the President said, include dualling of the Mombasa-Mariakani Highway, Dongo Kundu Bypass and Mombasa Northern Bypass.

“Once the project is completed, the transport and movement in Mombasa County will ease significantly, boosting industrial development and reducing the cost of transport,” he said.

On politics, President Kenyatta could on leaders to respect each other in order to make Kenya a better country.

He said empty politics does not benefit the country and called on leaders to unite the country for the sake of development.

In his address, Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho said the project is among key development projects aimed at making Mombasa a first class city.

“This road will open Mombasa for investment and tourism,” said the Governor.

British High Commissioner to Kenya Nic Hailey said his government will continue working closely with Kenya to achieve its development agenda.

Other speakers were Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary James Macharia and East Africa TradeMark CEO Frank Matsaert.

By PSCU