Nairobi — The World Bank has approved Sh71 billion to upgrade the Isiolo-Mandera road corridor, a move expected to cut travel time and unlock trade in northern Kenya.

The funding will support the rehabilitation of 508 kilometres of road and rollout of about 1,270 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure, boosting connectivity in the historically underserved region.

Once complete, travel time between Nairobi and Mandera is expected to drop from about three days to one, improving logistics efficiency and lowering the cost of doing business.

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The project will also enhance cross-border trade with neighbouring countries such as Somalia and Ethiopia.

The financing, provided through the World Bank's International Development Association, includes Sh37.7 billion in additional funding for the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project and Sh33.8 billion for its second phase.

World Bank Division Director Qimiao Fan said the project will improve connectivity, create jobs, and support livelihoods in remote areas.

"Multisectoral interventions that enhance connectivity... are essential to fostering inclusion and economic growth," he said.

The corridor is part of the broader Horn of Africa Initiative aimed at strengthening regional integration, improving access to seaports, and facilitating trade.

Implementation will be led by the Kenyan government through the Ministry of Roads and Transport, with a focus on efficient execution and compensation of affected communities.