KeNHA opens Sh7 billion tender to rebuild deadly Nithi bridge, realign Makutano–Embu–Meru road

In a notice issued on Tuesday, KeNHA announced that the tender includes realigning the Makutano–Embu–Meru (A9) road to eliminate long-standing blackspots that have been the cause of many fatal accidents.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has officially invited bids for the reconstruction of the notorious Nithi bridge, with the project estimated to cost Sh7 billion.
In a notice issued on Tuesday, KeNHA stated that the tender includes the realignment of the Makutano–Embu–Meru (A9) road, aiming to eliminate long-standing blackspots responsible for numerous fatal accidents in the area.
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KeNHA also announced that tender documents will be available on the government’s electronic procurement portal (e-GP) starting August 11, 2025.
Thika–Magumu road
The notice further includes plans for the rehabilitation and improvement of the Thika–Magumu (B20) road.
“All interested suppliers, contractors, consultants and service providers are required to register on the electronic government procurement (e-GP) system vide https://egpkenya.go.ke and bid for the tenders,” reads the notice.
The announcement came just a day after President William Ruto met with Tharaka Nithi leaders at State House, where he directed KeNHA to fast-track the long-delayed project.
During the meeting, the President disclosed that design work for the Nithi bridge upgrade had already been completed and stressed the urgency of rehabilitating what he called “one of Kenya’s deadliest road sections.”
Fatal crashes
Constructed in the 1980s, the Nithi bridge is infamous for its steep slope, sharp curves, and poor visibility—factors linked to numerous fatal crashes. The upcoming realignment seeks to straighten the road and add safety enhancements to reduce accident rates.
President Ruto said the project is expected to be completed before the next general election, describing the Sh7 billion investment as critical to saving lives and enhancing road safety.
He also noted that funding for the project was secured in April through a bilateral agreement with China during his state visit to Beijing.
The Nithi Bridge tender is part of KeNHA’s wider 2025/2026 procurement programme, which will be conducted entirely through the e-GP platform.
KeNHA is urging all eligible suppliers, contractors, consultants, and service providers to register on the system and keep track of upcoming opportunities.
The Authority reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency and efficiency throughout the procurement process.
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