Ruto outlines Nithi Bridge construction plan and completion date
By Mabonga Makhanu, August 4, 2025President William Ruto has revealed that the long-awaited construction of the Nithi Bridge is set to begin, with procurement officially kicking off on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
The head of state made this announcement while addressing a delegation from Tharaka Nithi County who visited State House on Monday, August 4.
During the meeting, Ruto reminded the delegation that the construction of the Nithi Bridge was among the key demands made by residents of Tharaka Nithi during the 2022 campaign period. He acknowledged the community’s persistent calls for a lasting solution to the deadly blackspot, affirming his administration’s commitment to fulfilling the promise.
“Mliniambia mahali tutakosania na nyinyi ni hii Nithi Bridge, si mliniambia hivyo, na niliskia, so hii Nithi Bridge mimi nitatengeneza, mnaniskia,” Ruto told the leaders.
Ruto disclosed that the project would require a substantial investment of Ksh7 billion, which he admitted was a large sum, but emphasised that the bridge must be constructed.
He reiterated the need for urgent intervention, noting that the current bridge design, marked by dangerous curves, has been responsible for numerous fatal accidents over the years.
“Inahitaji Ksh7 billion; ni pesa nyingi, lakini just chini kushoto na kushoto na kulia, lazima nitengeneze hio bridge,” he said.
He went on to announce that the tendering process would begin immediately, urging those interested in tracking the project to follow developments through official media and procurement channels.
“Hio Bridge inatangazwa kesho, mkifwatilia katika vyombo vya habari ama procurement; we are starting procurement ya Nithi Bridge tomorrow, na sio kwa sababu mmekuja hapa apana, ni kwa sababu mliniambia iko consequences, hio bridge tayari.”
Design works
President Ruto also confirmed that the bridge design work had already been completed and personally reviewed. According to him, the new design addresses the road’s current dangers by eliminating unnecessary corners, ensuring smoother and safer driving conditions.
“Tumefanya design, mimi nimeangalia mwenyewe hio design iko sawa sawa. Badala ya kupiga piga kona kona, ndio maana watu wanazama ndani; tutainyorosha vizuri,” he explained.
Deadline for completion
He concluded by setting a strict deadline for the bridge’s completion, stating that it must be done before the next general election.
“Na nimesema hio bridge lazima ikamilike kabla ya uchaguzi, mimi sitaki kesi na nyinyi,” he declared.
The Nithi Bridge, located on the Embu–Meru highway, has long been a source of concern due to its high accident rate.