The Motorists Association of Kenya has raised concerns over worsening traffic congestion on major highways as the festive season peaks, warning that poor road planning continues to leave thousands of motorists stranded for hours.

The association points to the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit corridor as one of the most affected routes, with severe delays reported along Mai Mahiu, Gilgil, Salgaa and Kikopey due to increased vehicle volumes and ongoing roadworks.

Accountability

In a series of statements posted on X on December 22, 2025, the Motorists Association accused KeNHA of long-standing neglect of the Rironi–Mau Summit highway, despite consistent growth in vehicle numbers over the years.

“Data doesn’t lie: every year, the Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) shows a massive increase in vehicles. Yet, KeNHA has ignored its own Service Charter, choosing to prioritise private contracts over public safety. They watched the traffic grow and did nothing. Mau Summit Rironi,” the association stated.

The group further demanded accountability from officials responsible for road planning over the past two decades, calling for decisive action to address the persistent congestion.

“Demand for action: We call for the sanctioning of salaried officers who have presided over this rot for two decades. It’s time for accountability. Dualise section by section. Respect the taxpayer. Stop the privatisation games,” the association added.

The Motorist Association warned that proposed tolling arrangements risk handing control of a key national corridor to foreign interests for decades, arguing that Kenyans could end up paying to use what they described as a sovereign public highway.

The lobby group said it would be unnecessary to lock the road into a long-term concession when a simpler, section-by-section dualing approach could ease congestion using public funds, cautioning that failure to do so would burden motorists with user charges while undermining public control of critical infrastructure.

Concerns over tolling and funding

Another key concern raised by motorists is the proposed tolling of the upgraded Rironi–Mau Summit highway under a public-private partnership model. The association argues that introducing toll charges would amount to double taxation, given the existing fuel levy already paid by motorists.

“No to Double Taxation: Roads benefit everyone and MUST be funded by the exchequer. If they want to return to tolls, they must stop the Fuel Levy immediately. You cannot tax us twice for the same road!” the association said.

The congestion has disrupted holiday travel plans for motorists heading to western Kenya and parts of the Rift Valley, prompting KeNHA to urge drivers to exercise patience, observe traffic rules and consider alternative routes or off-peak travel.

Construction of the 175-kilometre Rironi–Mau Summit dual carriageway began following its launch by President William Ruto in late November 2025.

While the project aims to ease congestion and improve safety along the Northern Corridor, ongoing works during the festive season have contributed to current delays.