Mombasa's ongoing infrastructure expansion, valued at $32 billion, includes key projects launched in 2021 to enhance its role as East Africa's primary gateway and tourism hub. The Sh16 billion Changamwe interchange, Sh4.5 billion Makupa Bridge, and Sh22 billion Dongo Kundu Bypass are central to the upgrades, with the Makupa Bridge specifically beginning construction in April 2021.
The Mombasa-Mariakani road dualization, funded by the European Investment Bank, Africa Development Bank, and Kenyan government, features six lanes to ease congestion. Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) reported 95% completion, targeting June 2022 completion. Engineer Simon Omolo emphasized the interchange's expanded capacity, including pedestrian pathways, to improve safety and efficiency.
The Makupa Bridge, replacing the historic causeway, includes four-lane parallel structures with dedicated spaces for cyclists and pedestrians. Despite a two-month delay, the project remains on track for completion in June 2022. Resident Engineer Stephen Gichuru stated the bridge will restore Mombasa's island status while reducing accidents and traffic delays.
Coast Regional Commissioner John Elungata highlighted the projects' economic impact, noting they will ease cargo movement through Mombasa Port, reduce travel times, and stimulate tourism. He linked the upgrades to job creation and regional trade growth, calling them critical for Kenya's coastal development.
