This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
On September 24, 2019, Kenya was set to receive a $450 million loan from Japan to construct a 1.3km bridge over the Kilindini harbour, linking Mombasa island to the mainland.
The Mombasa Gate Bridge project aims to reduce economic losses caused by traffic congestion, allowing Mombasa to achieve its full economic potential.
Construction of the bridge, which will have spiral ramps at both ends, is planned to start in 2021.
The total cost of the construction is approximately Kshs 80 billion ($771 Million), with construction works set to begin on Lumumba Road, near Jela Baridi Prison, Majengo.
The bridge will cross the railway station and Moi Avenue along Archbishop Makarios Road, cross the Likoni Channel at Mwenza Creek, and then join the Southern By-pass at Ziwani through the Mtongwe road.
The design work of the bridge was co-financed by the Kenyan government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Additionally, Japan will provide a $350 million loan and a $57 million grant to develop a port, road, electricity, and water supply and drainage in the Dongo Kundu special economic zone in Mombasa.
Japan has significantly increased its loans to Kenya, with a 162% increase over the last year, jumping from $503 million in June 2018 to $1.3 billion by June 2019.
