The government is facing mounting criticism over delays in the completion of the Rironi–Mau Summit highway, with the November 1 commissioning date announced by Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir appearing increasingly unlikely.
With just a day remaining before the promised commissioning, significant sections of the highway are yet to be completed, leaving motorists struggling with damaged road surfaces, unfinished stretches and ongoing construction works.
The Rironi–Mau Summit highway, which was expected to be commissioned up to Naivasha on November 1, has raised concerns among residents and road users who accuse the government of failing to honour its commitments.
Despite earlier assurances by the government, motorists continue to experience difficulties navigating sections of the busy highway, with concerns mounting over road safety, prolonged travel times and the inconvenience caused by the construction delays.
The latest developments have also renewed questions about the government’s commitment to its project timelines, particularly after President William Ruto indicated during the project’s launch that the road would be completed within six months.
Chirchir subsequently announced November 1 as the date for commissioning the highway, raising expectations among residents and motorists who have endured disruptions associated with the construction.
However, the apparent slow pace of work has cast doubt on whether the government will meet the latest deadline.
Residents and road users are now calling on the contractor to accelerate construction while ensuring that proper safety measures are maintained to protect motorists and other road users.
Businesses and traders operating along the highway have also expressed concern over the prolonged construction, warning that continued delays could negatively affect their livelihoods, particularly in towns and trading centres that depend on the highway for accessibility and commercial activity.
The controversy has further sparked debate over the use of major infrastructure projects for political messaging, with motorists insisting that public projects should be judged by their completion and the benefits delivered to citizens rather than repeated promises.
As the November 1 deadline approaches, attention is now turning to the government and the contractor to explain the status of the project and provide a realistic timeline for its completion.
