NAIROBI, Kenya, June, 25 – The Cabinet has approved the dualling of the Nairobi’s Northern Bypass, a 20.2-kilometre stretch that currently serves as the city’s only single-carriageway bypass in a move aimed at easing traffic congestion and boosting economic connectivity.
The planned infrastructure upgrade is poised to transform the busy corridor into a modern dual carriageway, significantly improving traffic flow and enhancing access to key economic zones in Nairobi and Kiambu counties.
The proposed dualing will see the current single-lane road converted into a two-lane carriageway in each direction.
The project also includes the construction of eight interchanges, overpasses and underpasses to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow.
Additionally, the development will incorporate non-motorised transport infrastructure, including pedestrian walkways and cycle paths, in line with the government’s push for inclusive and sustainable urban mobility.
Improved drainage systems and enhancements to adjacent access roads will also be implemented as part of the upgrade, ensuring the road remains resilient during the rainy season and safer for users.
The upgrade is expected to significantly improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents associated with overtaking on narrow, congested lanes.
The Nairobi Northern Bypass, which links Ruaka in Kiambu County to Ruiru and connects the Western and Eastern bypasses, has long been plagued by heavy congestion, particularly during peak hours.
Motorists routinely experience delays that translate into higher transport costs, increased fuel consumption, elevated vehicle emissions, and lost productivity.
The Northern Bypass dualling comes as part of broader national infrastructure plans to modernise Nairobi’s road network and position the capital as a regional economic hub.
