Nairobi — Construction of the Gitaru Interchange is nearing completion, marking a major step toward easing traffic congestion along one of the busiest transport corridors serving Nairobi and its surrounding towns.
The project, being implemented by the Kenya National Highways Authority, has now reached 85 per cent completion, with the agency projecting that the interchange itself will be finalised by June 30, 2026.
According to KENHA Director General Luka Kimeli, the project had initially stalled due to funding challenges before the government adopted a securitisation financing model that enabled works to resume.
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"The Gitaru Interchange had stalled due to funding constraints, but securitisation enabled us to resume this critical project, which was initiated in 2024," said Engineer Kimeli.
He noted that the government is committed to completing stalled road projects regardless of which administration had initiated them.
"In line with the President's directive, the government is completing stalled road projects regardless of when they began or which administration started them, because the government is perpetual. Leaving unfinished projects from previous administrations punishes Kenyans," he said.
A notable feature of the interchange is its distinctive four-loop cloverleaf design, inspired by a small plant commonly seen across the country and often regarded as a weed.
The design allows vehicles to move continuously through the junction without stopping, significantly reducing congestion and improving travel time.
Once complete, the interchange will streamline traffic flow and eliminate bottlenecks that have long affected motorists travelling along the busy corridor connecting Nairobi with surrounding towns.
The project will also eliminate costly detours for many residents and motorists who have long characterised travel through the area.
"In the past, people used to go up to Zambezi, a local centre, in order to make a U-turn to Nairobi. But now, when someone comes from Kikuyu, this intersection will be very useful," said a local resident.
Beyond easing mobility, the development has generated significant economic opportunities, with employment created for over 500 people.
Local entrepreneurs say the improved accessibility is already stimulating business activity in the area, as smoother traffic flow attracts more customers and facilitates easier movement of goods and services to city markets.
Once completed, the Gitaru Interchange is expected to become a critical piece of Kenya's road infrastructure, helping decongest traffic, reduce travel costs for motorists and support economic growth along the Nairobi metropolitan transport corridor.
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