After decades of waiting, residents of Laikipia North are celebrating what they describe as a long-overdue turning point in infrastructure development, following renewed government commitment to construct the Nanyuki–Doldol road.

The 60-kilometre stretch, long affected by impassable mud, potholes, and high transport costs, is now set for tarmacking under a Ksh 4 billion allocation.

President William Ruto said the project is part of a broader plan to ensure equitable development across the country.

“We are implementing inclusive development programmes so that no part of Kenya or community is left behind,” he said, noting that 217km of roads are being constructed across Laikipia County.

The economic importance of road connectivity has also been emphasized by Kenya National Highways Authority Director General Eng. Luka Kimeli, who said quality infrastructure is key to unlocking growth and inclusion.

“Quality road infrastructure remains the backbone of economic growth and social transformation. Roads connect people to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and investment opportunities, while also opening up regions for trade and development. Without reliable connectivity, communities and businesses continue to face unnecessary challenges in movement, access to services, and economic participation,” he said.

Residents say the road will transform mobility and trade across Nanyuki, Doldol and the surrounding areas.

Saitoti Emmanuel from Ilpolei, who is born and bred in the area for 27 years, said that the road is a significant milestone for the community.

He described the road as a key junction linking Nanyuki to Odonyiro, Kimanzo and Doldol.

“For all these years I have lived here, I have never seen tarmac and we are very grateful that the President has said the road will be constructed,” he said.

He also credited local leadership for pushing the project forward. “We also thank our Member of Parliament, because she has played a big role in ensuring this tarmac is being constructed,” he added.Emmanuel said the project would bring relief and opportunity for young people. “We thank President William Samoei Ruto and our leaders… our youth will benefit because they will get casual jobs when construction begins,” he said.

Transport operators say the current road conditions have made business difficult.

Jeff Mugendi Njagi, a resident in Laikipia and a driver transporting construction materials, noted that business has been waning owing to the bad road

He described severe challenges during rainy seasons. “When it rains here, you can be stuck for two or three days in the mud,” he said.

He added that delays increase costs and affect business operations. “Sometimes you find a patient who is sick cannot be taken to Nanyuki Referral Hospital because of the poor road conditions,” he said.

Njagi said completion of the road by 2027 would transform transport and trade. “If this road is completed by 2027, transport problems here will end,” he said.