Motorists using the upgraded Gilgil–Nakuru–Mau Summit highway will pay a toll of Sh8.50 per kilometre once the road becomes operational, following the publication of the project’s concession agreement by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).
The 94-kilometre highway will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with Shandong Hi-Speed Road and Bridge International Engineering Co. Ltd selected as the preferred private partner to finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the road.
According to KeNHA, the project will be implemented under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, Maintain and Transfer (DBFOMT) framework. The concessionaire will manage the highway for a 30-year period before handing it back to the government in accordance with the concession agreement.
The authority said the toll tariff has been set at Sh8.50 per kilometre, although future adjustments may be made subject to government approvals and the terms of the concession agreement. The project is expected to rely primarily on private financing, with any government financial commitments limited to those stipulated in the agreement.
The upgraded highway will include rehabilitation and expansion of the existing road, construction of interchanges, bridges and viaducts, drainage systems, tolling infrastructure and additional road safety features aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing accidents.
The Gilgil–Nakuru–Mau Summit corridor forms part of the busy Northern Corridor, linking Nairobi with western Kenya and neighbouring countries. It serves as a critical transport route for cargo moving to and from the Port of Mombasa.
KeNHA projects that the upgraded road will significantly reduce travel time, lower vehicle operating costs and improve connectivity between Nairobi, Nakuru and the wider Rift Valley region. The project is also expected to boost trade, tourism and regional investment while creating employment opportunities during both construction and operation.
The authority said publication of the concession agreement is intended to enhance transparency and public accountability in the implementation of the PPP project. Members of the public have also been invited to submit feedback and seek clarification as preparations for implementation continue.
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