By 
Nithi Bridge Set to Become Kenya’s Second-Longest at Nearly 3km
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has confirmed that construction of the long-awaited Nithi Bridge is set to begin, with the project now fully lined up for implementation.
Kindiki said the government has already allocated funds and identified a contractor. He noted that earlier delays stemmed from compensation issues handled by the National Land Commission (NLC), but emphasised that the process is now nearing completion.
“We have allocated funds and identified a contractor. The delays came from compensation matters, but everything is now in place and construction will proceed,” he said.
The Deputy President revealed that he rejected an earlier bridge design. He explained that the proposal failed to address safety concerns, including dangerous corners and steep sections along the route. As a result, the government opted for a revised design that better tackles accident risks.
Kindiki also pointed out that the Nithi Bridge challenge has persisted for decades. He traced the issue back to 1985, noting that successive administrations, including those of former presidents Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta, did not complete the project.
Nithi Bridge Set to Become Kenya’s Second-Longest at Nearly 3km
Government Pushes Ahead Despite Protests
Despite recent demonstrations, Kindiki insisted the project will move forward based on government planning, not public pressure. He described the protests as unnecessary, arguing that the administration now has both the authority and resources to deliver the bridge.
“The bridge will not be built because of demonstrations. It will be built because it is necessary and we now have the capacity to deliver it,” he said.
He added that the remaining step involves finalising compensation for affected landowners. The government estimates that about KSh200 million will cover the process. Authorities are now seeking early access to the land to speed up construction.
Once complete, the Nithi Bridge will stretch nearly three kilometres. This will make it Kenya’s second-longest bridge after the Dongo Kundu project.
Kindiki reaffirmed his commitment to fast-track the works, stating that the government is ready to break ground immediately and deliver a safer, modern crossing for road users.
Comments