Kipchumba Murkomen: Gov't Engaging Matatu Owners To Revive Over KSh 54.9b Nairobi BRT System

• The government announced plans to revive the Nairobi Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system aimed at easing traffic congestion
• Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen said construction will resume in the next two months and is expected to end in December 2024
• Murkomen acknowledged key stakeholders in the sector, like matatu owners and operators, saying the state is currently engaging them

The government has announced plans to revive the stalled Nairobi Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said construction of the over KSh 54.9 billion project is expected to resume in the next two months and end by December 2024.

Nairobi BRT system connecting Thika-CBD-Langata Road

Murkomen toured the BRT Line 2 at Kasarani terminal on Wednesday, July 26, saying the government is engaging stakeholders, including the public service vehicle (PSV) owners and operators.

"We are here to make sure that we start the completion process of the work that is remaining in this 23.7km network in Line 2, famously known as Simba line - the orange line which we are using as the model," said Murkomen.

Murkomen reiterated that the project is aimed at ensuring the problem of congestion in Nairobi is resolved.

Simba line covers Rongai-Bomas (Langata Road)-CBD-Ruiru-Thika-Kenol route.

Matatus to use Nairobi BRT system

The CS revealed the government is spearheading the release of the pending bills owed to the contractor to enhance the resumption of the work.

"The National Metropolitan Area Authority (NaMATA) is already working closely with Public Service Vehicle (PSV) owners and operators, private investors and other stakeholders with a view to enhancing inclusivity and expanding ownership of the project," he added.

Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja welcomed the move saying it boost the capital city's economy by connecting it to other hubs.

"Mobility is extremely important as a factor of production, and making sure that the capital city moves is really important and is in the government's manifesto. BRT is our first answer, and I am happy that we have unlocked this line which is a huge artery into the city," said Sakaja.

BRT project commenced in a joint sponsorship between the Kenya government at the European Commission to the tune of EUR 347.6 million (KSh 54.9 billion), Construction Review wrote.

Government allow matatus on Nairobi Expressway

The government has been engaging key stakeholders in the transport sector as it seeks to revamp the economy.

In a recent move, the state allowed Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) to use the Nairobi Expressway effective Thursday, July 13.

CS Murkomen confirmed that matatus operators have undergone the necessary awareness of safety and regulations on using the tolled highway.

He said the move will stimulate the country's economy by creating jobs and ensuring effective mobility.