Farmers and traders in Nandi County could benefit from improved transport links following the government’s announcement of a Ksh 20 billion investment targeting 350 kilometres of roads.
President William Ruto announced the programme during a visit to the county, where he inspected ongoing road works and launched a new project aimed at improving connections between rural communities and major trading centres.
The investment is expected to address transport challenges in farming areas, where road conditions can influence the cost of delivering produce to buyers.
Among the projects inspected were the 24-kilometre Maraba-Kebeneti and Timboroa-Kopere roads in Tinderet Constituency. Ruto also launched construction of the 17-kilometre Labuiywo-Kapkoros-Koisagat road, which will cost Ksh 1.3 billion.
The projects form part of a wider infrastructure programme intended to improve access to essential services and support economic activity in rural communities.
Speaking during the visit, Ruto said his administration was prioritising development over political activities.
“Politics is still ahead of us. For now, we are focusing on development. I have come here to address roads, hospitals, markets and electricity,” he said.
Farmers expected to benefit from road upgrades
The planned improvements are particularly significant for residents who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Better roads can make it easier to transport farm produce, reach collection centres and connect with buyers in neighbouring towns.
Poor road conditions can increase vehicle maintenance costs, delay deliveries and make rural routes difficult to use during rainy periods. Improved infrastructure could help reduce these challenges, although the benefits will depend on the quality of construction and continued maintenance.
The Labuiywo-Kapkoros-Koisagat road is also expected to strengthen connections between Nandi Hills and neighbouring counties, including Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot.
These links could support trade by making it easier for people and goods to move between agricultural areas and commercial centres.
Road projects accompanied by other developments
Ruto’s visit also covered projects targeting healthcare and business infrastructure.
The President visited Maraba Modern Market in Tinderet, which is intended to provide traders with improved working spaces. He also laid the foundation stone for a new inpatient block at Meteitei Sub-County Hospital.
The government is pursuing additional development initiatives in the county, including affordable housing, student accommodation and modern markets.
For residents, the impact of the Ksh20 billion road programme will depend on the pace of construction and the completion of the targeted roads.
If delivered as planned, the projects could ease the movement of people and agricultural produce, improve access to public services and strengthen connections between Nandi’s rural communities and major trading centres.
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