Governor Sakaja Johnson has assured residents of Nairobi that significant changes are on the horizon to alleviate the city’s notorious traffic congestion. Speaking on Wednesday, Sakaja confirmed the long-awaited Clean Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is set to commence in 2025, following the national cabinet’s approval of Ksh.43.4 billion for the project. The BRT system, aimed at revolutionizing Nairobi’s public transport, is seen as a major solution to the city’s gridlock problems.
“The National Government’s cabinet has approved this,” Sakaja stated. “Once completed, the BRT system will provide direct transport links to specific places, drastically reducing the time people spend in traffic jams in Nairobi.” He emphasized that the project will bring relief to daily commuters by offering a reliable, efficient, and faster alternative to the current road traffic congestion that plagues the city. “This is not just a project; it is a game-changer for Nairobi’s transport system,” Sakaja added.
The BRT project, which had been stalled for several years due to funding challenges, received a financial boost through partnerships with international bodies. These include the European Investment Bank, the European Union, and the French Development Agency. “The deal was sealed after months of negotiations,” Sakaja explained. “The partners visited me at City Hall last week to finalize the agreement. This partnership will ensure that the BRT system is well-funded and ready to roll out.”
The BRT system will start with Line 3, a 12-kilometer route connecting Dandora to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) via Juja Road. This initial phase will serve as a pilot to demonstrate the system’s effectiveness in easing traffic congestion and improving public transport efficiency. “The construction will begin next year,” Sakaja noted. “We are going to build this route, and once it is complete, it will provide direct links between key locations, including hospitals, schools, and major commercial areas.”
Sakaja highlighted that the second phase of the BRT project will extend the network further. “We are looking at linking Tala to Dandora in the east and KNH to Ngong in the west,” he said. This expansion will not only improve access across the city but also help decongest major roads and provide more direct routes for commuters.
In addition to the BRT system, the County Government, in collaboration with the national Ministry of Transport, is undertaking comprehensive road rehabilitation and improvement works. “We are not just fixing roads; we are also upgrading walkways and improving street lighting,” Sakaja explained. “These changes will create a safer, more accessible environment for everyone. By next year, residents will begin to see tangible results.”
The Governor emphasized that these infrastructure improvements align with broader city development goals. “We are not only addressing traffic congestion but also making Nairobi a more livable city,” Sakaja said. “By upgrading our roads, we are reducing accidents, improving air quality, and providing a more organized public transport system.” He pointed out that these changes are crucial for the city’s long-term sustainability and growth.
Sakaja also addressed concerns about the environmental impact of the BRT system. “This project is designed with sustainability in mind,” he noted. “We are investing in clean, efficient buses that run on modern technology, reducing carbon emissions and promoting green energy solutions.” The Governor underscored that the BRT system will be integrated with existing and upcoming infrastructure developments, such as the Nairobi Expressway, which will also help in managing traffic flow more efficiently.
As part of the ongoing transformation of Nairobi’s transport system, the Governor mentioned that the County Government will continue to work with international and local partners to ensure the success of these initiatives. “This is a collaborative effort,” Sakaja stated. “We are committed to transforming Nairobi into a smart city where mobility is not a problem but a solution.”
With the BRT project set to commence next year, Sakaja remains optimistic about the future of Nairobi’s transport sector. “This is just the beginning,” he concluded. “We have big plans for Nairobi, and we are confident that these efforts will set the stage for a modern, efficient, and traffic-free city.”
As Nairobi gears up for this transformative project, residents and stakeholders alike are hopeful that the BRT system will deliver on its promises, bringing much-needed relief to one of Africa’s most congested cities. The success of the BRT project will depend on effective implementation and continued collaboration between the County and National Governments. The coming months will be critical as detailed planning and construction work gets underway to make the vision of a cleaner, faster, and more organized Nairobi a reality.
