Kwale residents, traders welcome new road projects to cost Sh Sh171 million

Residents and traders in Kwale County are anticipating a positive turn for their businesses and daily lives as construction begins on crucial road projects connecting key areas within the region.

The much-awaited tarmac road linking Kona ya Polisi-Msambweni Hospital road and Mangwei-Majoreni road in Ramisi and Pongwe/Kikoneni wards is expected to alleviate longstanding transportation challenges that have troubled the community.

The Kona ya Polisi-Msambweni Hospital road, a 2.8 km stretch, is projected to be completed within six months at Sh74 million. This road, currently plagued with potholes, promises enhanced access for patients and commuters alike.

The second phase of the project focuses on tarmacking a 1.0 km stretch of the Mangwei-Majoreni road. Budgeted at Sh97 million and scheduled for completion within 12 months, this project aims to ease the transportation of people and goods, addressing issues of potholes, dust, and slippery road surfaces during the rainy season.

Traders from Mangwei and Majoreni expressed optimism, highlighting how the previously dilapidated road had inflated their operational costs and hindered smooth business transactions.

"This road will be a game-changer for us," remarked Juma Haruni, a local trader.

Ali Hussein, another trader from Mangwei, highlighted the losses he incurred during rainy seasons.

"When it rains, the roads become impassable. I operate a grocery store, sourcing goods from Tanzania and Kongowea market in Mombasa County. The delays caused by impassable roads make my goods lose their freshness or rot, leading to financial losses," he said.

Rukia Hamisi, a resident of Mangwei, shared the dire consequences of poor road conditions.

"It is difficult to access Msambweni Hospital when it rains. Two months ago, a woman had to deliver on the roadside because the vehicle couldn't reach the hospital in time due to the terrible state of the road," she told The Eastleigh Voice.

Kwale governor Fatuma Achani addressing locals. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

Mishi Salimu, echoing the sentiments of many residents, commended the county government for initiating the project, emphasising its potential to improve the lives of locals.

"When the project is completed, it will greatly benefit us. Our children sometimes miss school due to impassable roads, but we are optimistic that things will improve once the roads are upgraded," she noted.

The launch of the road construction projects was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, local leaders, and stakeholders.

Governor Achani insisted on the significance of infrastructural development in improving economic activities and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

"My administration is committed to improving infrastructure to elevate the socio-economic status of our people," she said during the ceremony, reaffirming her dedication to fostering development and progress within the county.

Accompanying Governor Fatuma were local Members of Parliament, including Mangale Chiforomodo of Lunga Lunga and Feisal Bader of Msambweni, who pledged their unwavering support to collaborate with both county and national governments in advancing initiatives aimed at uplifting their constituencies.

As construction kicks off on these vital road projects, residents and traders of Kwale County eagerly anticipate a future marked by improved accessibility, enhanced economic prospects, and a higher quality of life.