The state of Nairobi’s roads has long been a topic of concern for residents and motorists alike, with potholes and deteriorating infrastructure creating daily challenges. However, according to the County Executive for Mobility and Works, Ibrahim Auma, the responsibility for the condition of these roads cannot solely be placed on the shoulders of the City Hall administration. Auma explained that a significant portion of the capital’s roads falls under the jurisdiction of the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), both national government agencies.
Auma emphasized that while the Sakaja administration is committed to improving road conditions, the delays in road repairs or stalled projects are not the result of negligence at the county level. The national government, which controls many of the capital’s roads, has been an active partner in addressing the issue, with a collaborative framework in place to expedite repairs.
The county has already taken steps to tackle the problem. In a recent meeting with stakeholders and the President, the city’s leadership unveiled a Sh13 billion plan to overhaul Nairobi’s roads. This ambitious project, which has already been approved, is expected to commence soon and span over the next two years. While the specifics of the plan remain limited, Auma assured that the funds would be used efficiently to address the city’s road infrastructure challenges.
Despite the financial constraints faced by the county, particularly with health and education receiving priority funding, Auma expressed confidence that the city’s road network would see significant improvements. He explained that Nairobi’s road docket has not been allocated sufficient resources from the county assembly, with nearly 40% of the budget being directed to the health sector. However, he remains committed to ensuring that Nairobians will soon experience tangible improvements in the road network.
Acknowledging that the recent heavy rains worsened the road conditions, Auma stressed that the national and county governments are both aware of the issue and working together to find long-term solutions. “We are working round the clock to fix the roads,” he said. “It’s not just about promises, but about delivering results that Nairobians can see.”
With the Sh13 billion plan in motion, residents can expect visible changes in the city’s road infrastructure. Auma’s assurances signal a turning point, and the focus will now shift toward results rather than discussions. The road to a better Nairobi is being paved, literally and figuratively, through collaboration and commitment.
