MPs Urge KeNHA to Avoid Awarding Multiple Road Contracts to Single Firms

The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure has urged the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to avoid awarding multiple road contracts to the same contractor, saying the practice contributes to delays in the completion of projects across the country.

Led by Vice Chairperson Didmus Barasa, the committee made the remarks during an inspection tour of the ongoing Kisumu–Mamboleo–Miwani–Chemelil–Muhoroni road project.

The lawmakers noted that many contractors are struggling to complete road projects due to financial pressure arising from handling several government contracts at the same time.

“We can see some great progress on this road. However, you need to identify contractors with liquidity and the capacity to undertake such projects. Once a contractor is awarded a project of this magnitude, do not give them another one until they complete the first,” said Barasa.

The committee also called on the State Department for Roads under the Ministry of Roads and Transport to ensure the timely release of funds allocated to KeNHA to enable contractors to speed up project implementation.

Despite the concerns, the MPs expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the road project, saying it will improve transport and boost business activities in Kisumu, Nandi and Kericho counties once completed.

They further noted that the planned Mamboleo Interchange will help ease traffic congestion for motorists travelling to Vihiga, Kakamega and Bungoma counties.

A KeNHA team led by a representative of Roads Principal Secretary Henry Gakuru and Director of Maintenance Fukwo Wafula informed the committee that the project has been divided among three contractors who are currently on site.

According to KeNHA, the project has achieved 28 per cent completion and is expected to be finished by January 2028 under a revised work schedule.

The agency cited pending bills, delayed funding and adverse weather conditions among the challenges that have affected the pace of construction.