The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has opposed the proposed construction of the 60-kilometre Nairobi-Thika Expressway, warning that the project could introduce engineering challenges and cause significant economic disruption in Nairobi.
In a statement dated Monday, November 2, and seen by Vantage Ke, the association questioned the need to construct an elevated highway above the existing Thika Superhighway, describing the proposal as an unnecessary undertaking that would amount to a waste of public funds.
"The recent state announcement proposing an elevated expressway directly over the Thika Superhighway is not only misguided; it is an insult to sound urban planning, fiscal responsibility, and the millions of Kenyans who rely on this vital artery every single day," MAK stated.
The lobby group maintained that the existing superhighway already functions as an expressway, with controlled entry and exit points, alongside dedicated pedestrian footbridges designed to facilitate smooth traffic movement.
MAK further noted that several sections of the road have up to 12 lanes, providing uninterrupted connectivity from Pangani and Wangari Maathai Road to Thika.
The association also expressed concern that the proposed project, estimated to cost more than Ksh150 billion, could transform the ground-level sections of the highway into what it described as a 'dark and insecure concrete jungle'.
According to MAK, the elevated structure would obstruct natural light, worsen air quality and create persistent noise pollution along the corridor, potentially undermining Nairobi's urban planning and structural integrity.
On the economic impact, the association warned that businesses operating along Thika Road could experience substantial losses in value, drawing comparisons with the disruptions witnessed along Uhuru Highway and Mombasa Road during and after the construction of major highways.
MAK observed that businesses in affected sections had previously been forced to vacate their premises to pave the way for road construction, resulting in significant economic consequences.
The association added that the space needed to accommodate massive concrete pillars would likely reduce the capacity of existing lanes, disrupting traffic and paralysing businesses along the corridor throughout the construction period.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto is expected to lead the groundbreaking ceremony for the project by December 2026.
The proposed 60-kilometre elevated highway will link Thika town to Museum Hill in Nairobi, passing through Ruiru and Juja. The project is expected to be implemented under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
Once completed, the highway is expected to separate long-distance motorists from local commuters, easing traffic congestion in Githurai, Ruiru and Juja.
The project forms part of the government's wider road infrastructure plans, which also include the proposed dualling of the Muthaiga-Kiambu Road.
