This archive report was first published on 13 September 2019.
Naivasha's Moi South Lake Road has been a major concern for flower growers and players in the hospitality industry, with many citing a decline in local and international tourists due to its poor state.
According to Kimani Gitau, Managing Director of Sawela Lodges, the road's condition has been a major issue for visitors, with many complaining bitterly to the management.
“The bumpy road is a nightmare for our customers and they are not hiding this fact after visiting our facilities,” Mr. Gitau said.
Former Nakuru Chamber of Commerce chairman Njuguna Kamau described the road's condition as “a mockery” to the high number of investors operating in the area.
“The potholes are not only damaging vehicles but also occasioning unnecessary delay for flower traders ferrying the perishable produce to the airport,” noted Mr. Kamau.
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara termed the road a crucial transport circuit within the constituency, leading to the best hotels and tourist sites, including access to Lake Naivasha.
“Sometimes back when I raised a concern on the state of the road, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure advertised for the construction of the road, only for us to be informed that the bidders quoted a higher figure than what was initially budgeted for,” claimed the legislator.
She further stated that the ministry advertised for the same road and actually conducted a pre-tender site visit.
“We were still in the dark about the procurement process until recently when I learnt there was an error during the tender opening process and that the procedure has to be done afresh,” said Mrs. Kihara.
