New superhighway will spur economic growth

The official opening of the Sh31 billion Thika Superhighway by President Kibaki on Friday marked yet another milestone in infrastructural development.

The new eight-lane superhighway will boost economic growth in line with the Vision 2030 development programme. It will also greatly benefit the people living along the route and those who traverse it. Since it was opened, commuters have enjoyed faster, reliable, comfortable and more affordable journeys.

The road’s impact is also being felt beyond the project route as one travels towards Isiolo, Marsabit, Moyale, and into Ethiopia. The road, no doubt, will be crucial in enhancing regional connectivity, integration and growth.

 A good roadwork is key for any economic growth. That’s why we laud the Kibaki administration for spearheading the improvement of the national road network. This has meant that areas that were inaccessible before have now been opened up for business.

Also, farmers in some areas that could not market their produce are now reaping from the benefits of good roads, as they can now access their target markets. Poor roads have in the past led to delay in delivery of commodities and subsequently resulting in huge financial losses.

 It is, however, sad to hear that vandals have not spared the new roads. Already, road signs and other vital road facilities have been stolen on the new superhighway. We urge for community policing to help protect important installations on these new roads.

We also hope as the country heads towards political transition, the pace of infrastructure development will not be lost. And that’s the challenge for the new Government expected to be in place next year.