Africa’s largest toll road project, the Usahihi expressway, is set to be constructed thanks to an investment of $3.6 billion secured by Kenya.
Plans for the road were revealed by Kenyan President William Ruto during a recent visit to the White House.
Nairobi and Mombasa, the two biggest cities in Kenya, will be connected by the 440 km long, four to six lane dual highway.
It will have rest areas, places to see wildlife, infrastructure for charging electric vehicles using renewable energy sources, and overpasses created by environmental experts based on animal migration patterns to aid in the movement of species.
It is anticipated that the road will reduce the present 10.5-hour travel time from Nairobi to Mombasa to 4.5 hours.
Through a contract with the Kenya Highways Authority, Everstrong Capital has obtained complete development rights for the project.
The $3.6 billion investment will be funded by US development finance institutions, with additional funding coming from Kenyan pension funds and the private sector.
More than just a highway, the Usahihi Expressway establishes a benchmark for open, sustainable, and neighborhood-focused development. It promotes environmental conservation and economic progress while acting as a global model for ethical development, according to Kenyan President William Ruto.