This archive report was first published on 29 November 2019.
Published on November 29, 2019, the Nairobi Metropolitan Authority (Namata) has launched a fresh attempt to ease traffic congestion on Thika Road through the implementation of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
The project, which aims to improve Nairobi's transport system and reduce vehicle congestion, will involve the procurement of contractors and the issuance of specifications for the system. The BRT system was initially being handled by the Transport ministry but has now been taken over by Namata, established in February 2017 to decongest Nairobi.
According to Namata, the implementation of the BRT system will involve different agencies, with the authority playing a key role in the procurement of contractors and the issuance of specifications. The project is expected to take one and a half years, with the initial phase expected to take eight months.
“The government intends to improve the infrastructure on Thika Superhighway to accommodate the Bus Rapid Transit system. The improvements will be undertaken as a design and build contract with a construction period of 18 months,” said Namata in a statement.
Approximately Sh900 million will be invested in the infrastructure, including demarcation of lanes, bus stops, and a depot. Another Sh800 million will be used for the acquisition of buses. The selection of firms to supply the buses will be done through an open tender, unlike last year when the government planned to acquire the buses through single sourcing from a South African firm.
“We will advertise for delivery of the buses, starting with 12-metre ones that can ferry between 80 and 100 people. As we open other routes, the investment will continue and we can look at buses with even higher capacity,” said Namata Chief Executive Francis Gitau.
