Embu commences Sh140m upgrades to urban roads

*A backhoe loader working on Rosesteve–Woods Road in Embu Town as the county government commences upgrading* *key urban roads to bitumen standards.*

The Embu county government has embarked on a project to upgrade key urban roads to bitumen standards at a cost of Sh140 million.

The development is part of Governor Cecily Mbarire’s infrastructure agenda aimed at enhancing connectivity, supporting local businesses and improving livelihoods.

Some of the earmarked roads include three feeder roads in Embu Town, Rwika Market Road in Mbeere South, Siakago Market Road in Mbeere North and Runyenjes Town exit.

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Other components of the projects include street lighting, proper drainage systems, culverts and pedestrian walkways.

Francis Ndwiga, executive for roads, transport and public works, said the upgraded roads will offer smoother, safer and more reliable travel for commuters, residents and traders.

Speaking while handing over the sites to respective contractors on Wednesday, Ndwiga said the roads are set to be key drivers of sustainable economic growth across the county by enhancing access for farmers and local businesses, thus enabling more efficient transportation of goods and stimulating trade.

One of the key areas where the programme will have a huge impact is Rwika Market, which is home to Jeremiah Nyagah National Polytechnic that has a student population of over 6,000.

The institution trustee and former Kamukunji MP Norman Nyaga termed the project a “long-awaited milestone” that will act as a critical catalyst for investment.

“We will miss the dust and the mud that have been a common feature here and the programme will go a long way in easing access to the institution,” he said.

He reported that the poor state of the road had occasioned stagnation of the student population and the new development will act as an impetus to bring in more students.

Kirimari ward MCA Ibrahim Swaleh noted that the project will ease movement of people and improve the working environment for business owners in the area.

He said the poor state of the roads has caused challenges to traders as a result of weather vagaries, including dust during dry spells and mud during rainy seasons.

Swaleh also called on the county government to shift from gravel to tarmac roads, especially in towns, to curb investment waste as they are more sustainable and long-lasting.