This archive report was first published on 22 August 2019.
On August 22, 2019, Meru County and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the construction of a major highway from Isiolo to Mandera, passing through northern Meru County.
The 700km road project, estimated to cost approximately Ksh 100 billion, will start at Isiolo Town and cover parts of Meru County. The first phase of the project, covering 365 kilometers, is expected to cost Sh.50 billion.
Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi welcomed the project, stating that the county government will offer a waiver on cess for construction materials found within Meru County. He also promised to facilitate the free movement of construction materials and labor for the project.
"We shall facilitate free movement of all construction materials and labor for purposes of construction of this road. That is the support we shall give to make the project cheaper," Murungi said.
The road project aims to open up the underutilized northern corridor of Meru County, which is known for livestock production. As part of the agreement, KeNHA will provide the county with an additional 5 kilometers of tarmac road to connect to various small towns within the corridor.
The project will also include the installation of underground fiber optics covering the entire 700 kilometers, unlike the 365 kilometers earmarked for phase one.
