Major Road Expansion as NLC, KeNHA Begin Land Acquisition for 215KM Projects

The government has started the process of acquiring land for major road projects covering a combined 215 kilometres in different parts of Kenya.

The National Land Commission (NLC) has issued notices for the compulsory acquisition of land needed for road construction in Kajiado, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties. The projects are being undertaken on behalf of the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).

One of the major projects is the 124-kilometre Barpello-Tot-Sigor-Marich Pass road, which will improve transport links across the North Rift.

The project has been divided into three sections. The first section will cover 43 kilometres from Barpello to Tot Junction.

The second section will run for 46 kilometres from Tot Junction through Chesegon to the Kopasi River. The third section will cover 35 kilometres from the Kopasi River through Lomut and Sigor to Marich Pass.

The project will also include the proposed 7.023-kilometre Chesegon Bypass, which will connect Kabaldamet and Liter.

The road corridor passes through Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties and is expected to improve movement of people and goods across the region.

In Kajiado County, the NLC has also started the land acquisition process for the 91-kilometre Ngong-Kiserian-Isinya and Kajiado-Imaroro roads.

The Kajiado project consists of the 48-kilometre Ngong-Kiserian-Isinya road and the 43-kilometre Kajiado-Imaroro road. Both projects were developed under the Roads Annuity Programme.

Affected landowners have been invited to inspect the plans and raise any concerns regarding the proposed acquisition.

In Kajiado, the NLC has scheduled an inquiry for September 16 at the Upper Matasia Chief's Office. Landowners affected by the project will have an opportunity to present their concerns and discuss compensation.

The projects are part of wider government efforts to improve road infrastructure and make it easier for people to travel between different parts of the country.

The North Rift road is also expected to strengthen links between communities and trading centres while supporting the movement of goods.

For affected landowners, the land acquisition process will be closely watched, particularly because compensation and the exact road alignment are important issues.

The latest development marks a major step towards the implementation of the 215-kilometre road projects, with authorities now moving ahead with the formal land acquisition process.