Kenol–Sagana–Marua highway nears completion
By Francis Muli, May 27, 2026The Kenol–Sagana–Marua highway is nearing completion, with residents along the corridor saying it’s already reshaping economic activity in parts of Central Kenya, with increased job opportunities and improved transport efficiency.
The 84-kilometre road project, being implemented by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), is part of the Great North Road and the broader Trans-African Highway linking Kenya to Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa. The project, estimated to have cost about Ksh9 billion, is now more than 99 per cent complete.
Construction began in 2020 but experienced repeated delays due to funding challenges before works resumed under the government’s securitisation programme launched in 2025.
Once completed, the highway is expected to ease congestion along one of Kenya’s busiest transport corridors while improving regional trade and road safety.
Even before its completion, local residents say the project has created employment opportunities for hundreds of people, including casual labourers, drivers, machine operators and skilled construction workers.
Across various sections of the highway, workers remain engaged in drainage works, concrete laying, material transport and interchange construction, with many locals taking up temporary jobs linked to the project.
Francisco Kirogo, a resident popularly known as “Sisco,” said the road expansion had reduced traffic congestion that previously affected movement between Sagana and Marua.
“This road project has really helped ease the congestion that used to be experienced between Sagana and Marua,” he said.
He added that the construction works had also provided income opportunities for many young people in nearby towns and trading centres.
“Young people are no longer just idle as they used to be. Many have found jobs here. Even those without formal qualifications are getting work and earning something to take home,” he said.
The project’s economic impact is also being felt among small businesses operating along the corridor, with traders reporting increased demand for food, transport and accommodation services from construction workers and motorists.
Farmers in the region also expect the improved road network to lower transport costs and improve access to markets for produce such as tea, coffee and macadamia.
One of the major features of the project is the Gitaru Interchange, a grade-separated junction designed to improve traffic flow along the corridor.
Residents say reduced travel times are already improving movement for workers, traders and students who previously spent hours in traffic snarl-ups.
The highway is expected to serve as a major transport link connecting Central Kenya to northern trade routes once fully operational.