The Kenya National Highways Authority has denied claims that it has awarded tenders for the construction of the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit and Rironi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha road projects.
In a detailed statement, the agency stated that the approval accorded by the PPP Committee only granted permission to it to enter into negotiations with the preferred bidder, but did not amount to an award.
“Kindly note that the PPP Committee has not yet approved the award for implementation of the project. The concurrence granted only allows KeNHA to commence negotiations with the preferred proponent in line with the PPP process. This is the process that is currently ongoing,” KeNHA stated.
The clarification comes amid public speculation and concern about delays in awarding the tenders for the two major infrastructure projects. The roads are seen as critical to easing traffic congestion and boosting trade along one of Kenya’s busiest transport corridors.
KeNHA maintained that the procurement process continues to be transparent, accountable, and within all facets of the law.
“All progress updates and decisions are being disclosed publicly in line with the PPP Act, Cap 430, and the National Treasury Circular of April 24, 2025, on Public Disclosure of Privately Initiated Proposals (PIPs),” said Acting Director-General Luka Kimeli.
According to KeNHA, three entities had submitted proposals for the projects under the PPP model: Shandong Hi-Speed Road and Bridge International Engineering Company Limited (SDRBI), China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) in partnership with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Board of Trustees, and Multiplex Partners Company Limited.
However, Multiplex Partners was disqualified for failing to pay the mandatory non-refundable proposal review fee during submission.
KeNHA then evaluated the remaining two proposals, after which the PPP Committee gave conditional approval for the proponents to move to the Project Development Phase (PDP). The proponents, who were shortlisted for evaluation, tehn conducted feasibility studies and submitted feasibility reports to KeNHA on 15th September 2025.
As part of the process, KeNHA conducted stakeholder engagement and public participation forums along the project corridor between August 18 and September 8, 2025. This was in line with Article 10 of the Constitution on the requirement for the involvement of the public in national development projects.
After reviewing the reports, KeNHA forwarded its evaluation to the PPP Directorate for analysis and recommendation. The PPP Committee, under the National Treasury, subsequently approved the CRBC–NSSF Consortium as the Preferred Proponent for the project.
However, KeNHA stressed that this does not mean the project has been formally awarded.
The multi-billion shilling project covers approximately 175 kilometres of the A8 Road (Rironi–Nakuru–Mau Summit) and 58 kilometres of the A8 South Road (Rironi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha).
KeNHA said the project will be undertaken through a tolling model, where motorists will pay approved fees at regulated rates according to the approved tariff structure.
“Road users will, therefore, be required to pay toll fees determined through an approved tariff framework, with rates regulated to ensure affordability, transparency, and sustainability, while enabling the private partner to recover investment and maintenance costs during the concession period,” the agency noted.
The authority further stated that it will identify alternative routes for motorists who prefer not to use the tolled highway.
“The public should be assured that the Authority will ensure their interests are accommodated regarding the structure, intent, and safeguards of the project,” KeNHA said.
KeNHA said the aim is to deliver the project in a manner that ensures economic efficiency, public safety, and sustainable infrastructure development for generations to come.
