Everstrong Capital, a United States infrastructure investment firm, has confirmed that construction on the long-anticipated Nairobi-Mombasa expressway will officially commence in the first quarter of 2026.
According to kenyans.co.ke, Senior Advisor Kyle McCarter made the announcement on Friday, April 25, offering a key update on the 440-kilometre project aimed at transforming transportation between Kenya’s two major cities.
In the update, McCarter revealed that Everstrong Capital was planning to submit a formal feasibility study in May this year for approval by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).
“Update on delivery: submitting feasibility study in May, looking for on-time approval from Kenha & PPP, financial close by end of year and construction beginning Q1 2026,” McCarter announced.
The former US Ambassador to Kenya gave the update hours after meeting former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, in which the two leaders discussed the need for proper infrastructure in Africa.
During the meeting, the duo also discussed the positive economic impact the Nairobi-Mombasa expressway would have on Kenyans and the wider region.
The announcement comes about two months after Everstrong Capital and CPF Capital & Advisory Limited officially signed a project agreement to raise Ksh129 billion for the construction of the highway.
The highway, dubbed Usahihi, is expected to cost Ksh464 billion. The road which connects Kenya’s largest cities aims to enhance the country’s transport sector and improve regional connectivity.
According to Everstrong Capital, the road project aims to revolutionise Kenya’s transportation network, positioning the country as a key player in the East African wealth corridor by enhancing connectivity and boosting economic growth.
It is expected to be the largest toll road in Africa and focuses on sustainability, featuring wildlife corridors, electric vehicle charging and renewable energy infrastructure.
The construction of the highway is also expected to reduce the travel time between the two cities to at most 4 hours from the usual 10 to 12 hours.
The announcement for the construction of the highway was first made in May last year during President William Ruto’s state visit to the United States, where he met former President Joe Biden.
Everstrong Capital signed the Project Development Agreement (PDA) with KeNHA officials in Ruto and Biden’s presence, authorising the full development rights to Everstrong Capital and its partners.
The construction of the highway was initially suspended in 2019 after Kenya hit its debt ceiling, forcing the Kenyan government to seek alternative methods of construction through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
