Mombasa Port gets boost as Sh3.1billion road project kicks off

Construction is underway at the Dongo Kundu road project from the second container terminal at Mombasa Port. [PHOTO FILE/STANDARD]

Kenya’s quest to be the largest trade hub in the region has inched closer following the launch of the Port Reitz road project worth Sh3.1 billion in Mombasa.

The project is expected to boost trade after a link is constructed to the second container terminal at the Mombasa Port to the Northern Corridor and the East and Central Africa.

The government is also constructing the access road to the Moi International Airport. “As the Roads Authority we are committed to developing the national roads with the aim of leveraging our business competitiveness, enhance regional integration while at the same time improve livelihood of people,” said Roads Authority Chairman Eratsus Mwongera.

Funded by the United Kingdom Department for International Development (DFID) and the government to a tune of Sh3.1 billion ($31 million), the Port Reitz road project is crucial to the newly constructed second container terminal at Mombasa Port.

Transport and Infrastructure Principal Secretary John Mosonik said this will boost the economy.

“The link will serve as a catalyst to improving the cargo handling capacity of the Port of Mombasa which will not only serve the country’s economy better but also retain the port as the preferred port of use by the neighbouring economies,” said Mr Mosonik.

Earlier, the PS attributed the slow off take to the of Sh2.1 billion required to compensate affected residents living on land targeted by the project. First phase of the project is 20 per cent complete with major milestones achieved in the ongoing feasibility studies with Trade Mark East Africa pledging Sh1.9 billion for the second phase.

Currently, there are other projects ongoing in Mombasa aimed at maximising the ports potential amounting to Sh37 billion.

A recent report by the East Africa Logistics Performance has however raised doubts on the heavy investments the state is making on infrastructure. According to the report, good returns will be achieved from the projects if stakeholders are involved.