Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway Not Stalled, American Contractor Clarifies

US-backed firm dismisses reports of project abandonment as feasibility studies continue under government review

The American contractor behind Kenya’s ambitious Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway has moved to dispel rumors that the massive infrastructure project has hit a roadblock, insisting that feasibility studies remain under active review by government agencies.

Usahihi Expressway Limited, the firm tasked with transforming the 419-kilometer highway into a four-lane expressway, issued a statement Saturday clarifying the project’s status amid circulating reports suggesting the initiative had been abandoned.

“We have observed with concern a recent statement circulating in the public domain. We wish to clearly state that the information shared is inaccurate and does not represent the true status or progress of the project,” the company stated, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and continued collaboration with government stakeholders.

The clarification comes after reports emerged claiming that the Public Private Partnerships (PPP) committee had determined the Project Development Report submitted by the contractor failed to meet relevant criteria and should be scrapped entirely.

According to the contractor, feasibility studies are currently undergoing review by three key government bodies: the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the Public Private Partnerships Directorate (PPP Kenya), and the National Treasury.

The ambitious project, estimated to cost Sh468 billion, will be developed through a public-private partnership model that removes financial risk from the government and taxpayers.

The initiative is backed by US private equity firm Everstrong Capital and chaired by former US Ambassador to Kenya Kyle McCarter.

Under the arrangement, the company will design, finance, build, operate and maintain the road over a 30-year period before transferring ownership to the Kenyan government.

McCarter had previously indicated the project would take three to four years to complete.

The PPP website had initially indicated that feasibility studies would be completed by May this year, with construction expected to commence early next year.

However, the contractor’s statement suggests the review process is still ongoing, with official updates promised once substantive information becomes available through appropriate channels.

The expressway project represents a significant infrastructure investment aimed at improving regional connectivity and trade.

The contractor describes it as “a game-changer for regional trade and connectivity” that will reduce travel time and congestion while improving cargo movement for local and international traders.

The initiative also aims to strengthen the Northern Corridor as a dependable economic lifeline for East Africa, connecting Kenya’s capital with its principal port city of Mombasa.

McCarter had previously announced that Everstrong Capital would conduct tours of counties set to benefit from the project, beginning with Makueni County, which will host the largest portion of the road.

The project’s current status remains a subject of keen interest given its potential economic impact and the significant investment involved.

The contractor’s clarification appears aimed at maintaining stakeholder confidence while the government review process continues.