President William Ruto has highlighted road infrastructure as a central pillar of Kenya’s development agenda, saying it is key to connecting marginalised regions and improving economic activity across the country.

He made the remarks during a development tour of Laikipia County on Friday, May 8, 2026.

The president inspected ongoing works on the Sipili–Ol Moran road in Laikipia North Constituency, describing it as a critical transport corridor expected to enhance movement of goods and services.

Road infrastructure inspection in Laikipia

During the tour, President Ruto said infrastructure projects are aimed at ensuring inclusive development across all regions.

“Our transformative development programmes are delivering visible and inclusive transformation across the country,” President Ruto stated.

“We continue to connect the country through road development, especially in parts of Kenya that have for long been left out and marginalised.”

He noted that improved road networks are expected to link farmers to markets and industries, increasing access to economic opportunities. The government has allocated Ksh4 billion for the construction of the 60-kilometre Nanyuki–Doldol road as part of broader infrastructure expansion in the region.

Officials said a total of 217 kilometres of roads are planned across Laikipia County, with additional projects valued at over Ksh20 billion currently underway.

The development programme also includes Ksh15 billion for affordable housing, student hostels and modern markets intended to support urban and rural growth.

The president also inspected the 955-unit Starehe Affordable Housing Project in Nyahururu Town, Laikipia West Constituency, which is under construction. The visit also included a review of local service delivery initiatives, including Huduma Centre developments aimed at improving access to government services.

Education and service delivery initiatives

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku highlighted the establishment of a new Huduma Centre in Doldol, which is expected to provide services such as identity registration and business permits.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua joined the tour, where officials also launched the Doldol Huduma Centre foundation stone and handed over a school bus to Kurum Day Secondary School.

Authorities also announced plans to construct five new schools in Laikipia North at a cost of Ksh60 million to reduce overcrowding in existing institutions.

The Laikipia visit came ahead of President Ruto’s planned state visit to Rome, Italy, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and attracting investment in infrastructure, agriculture, energy and irrigation.

Government officials said discussions will focus on expanding irrigation projects and financing under Kenya’s national development framework, including dam construction and expansion of irrigated land.