Nairobi County government will soon receive Ksh.43 billion (approximately USD 300 million) from foreign partners. The funds, secured after months of negotiations with the European Investment Bank, European Union, and French Development Agency, are set to boost the stalled Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. This financial injection is expected to complete Line 3 of the BRT system, which will run from Dandora through the Central Business District (CBD) to Ngong.
Securing the Deal
Governor Johnson Sakaja announced the funding during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, emphasizing the project’s potential to transform Nairobi’s urban landscape. “I want to promise that next year we’ll see a marked difference. Yesterday, I received a delegation from the European Investment Bank, European Union, and French Development Agency who have confirmed Ksh.43 billion for Line 3 of the BRT,” Sakaja stated. The deal marks a major step in resolving the financial hurdles that had stalled the ambitious project, which was first launched in August 2020.
The BRT project is aimed at reducing the city’s notorious traffic congestion by providing dedicated bus lanes and modern stations. This mode of public transport is expected to be more efficient and reliable compared to traditional matatus and other public service vehicles. The introduction of dedicated lanes will ensure that buses can move quickly and with fewer interruptions, making the transit system more attractive to daily commuters.
The Impact of the BRT Project
Line 3 of the BRT is particularly significant as it spans from Dandora, an area in the eastern part of Nairobi, through the CBD and towards Kenyatta National Hospital and Ngong. This route will cater to a large portion of the city’s population, linking residential areas to major employment hubs, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. The completion of this line is expected to significantly ease the movement of people across the city, reducing travel times and the frustrations associated with Nairobi’s notorious traffic jams.
Governor Sakaja highlighted the importance of this project in his speech, stating, “This funding is not just a lifeline for the BRT project but a game changer for Nairobi. It’s about enhancing movement and mobility within the city. With the national government, we are addressing key roads that have been left dilapidated for many years.” This partnership with the national government is crucial as it ensures that not only the BRT lanes but also the connecting infrastructure like roads, pedestrian walkways, and interchanges are well-maintained and effectively managed.
Collaboration with the National Government
The BRT project is not the only initiative that Sakaja’s administration is undertaking in collaboration with the national government. In his address, the governor highlighted several other critical road rehabilitation projects aimed at revamping Nairobi’s infrastructure. For instance, recent tours of key roads like Uhuru Highway, Mombasa Road, and Waiyaki Way with Roads Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir were conducted to assess the condition of these major thoroughfares and plan for their restoration. “We are increasing movement and mobility within the city. With the national govt, we are addressing these roads that have been left in a desolate state,” Sakaja said. The focus is on rehabilitating and modernizing these roads to better integrate the city’s transport network and accommodate the anticipated increase in bus transit demand.
Governor Sakaja also revealed plans to rename some roads in Nairobi in honor of Kenyan artists, marking a cultural shift in the city’s infrastructure development. This initiative includes renaming a road in South C after Issah Mmari, popularly known as E-sir, a hip-hop pioneer whose career was tragically cut short in a road accident at the age of 21. “E-sir’s contribution to Kenyan music was immense,” Sakaja remarked, emphasizing the importance of recognizing artists who have shaped the cultural landscape of the country.
Conclusion
The Ksh.43 billion funding for the BRT project represents a significant investment in Nairobi’s future. It not only aims to solve the city’s chronic traffic issues but also enhances urban mobility, making the city more accessible and livable. As the BRT project moves forward, it will set a precedent for similar urban transport initiatives across the country. Governor Sakaja’s vision for a more connected and vibrant Nairobi is one step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to this critical support from international partners.
With the completion of Line 3 expected next year, Nairobi’s residents can look forward to a more efficient and modern public transport system that will improve their daily commute and quality of life.
