The County Government of Nakuru has intensified efforts to improve rural road connectivity, with at least 25 kilometres of roads currently undergoing upgrades in Visoi Ward, Rongai Sub-County. The works are being implemented under the Imarisha Barabara programme, an initiative of H.E. Governor Susan Kihika’s administration aimed at improving road infrastructure across the county.
The ongoing works target key access roads within the ward and are intended to improve movement for residents, traders, and service providers. The programme focuses on upgrading roads that link farms, markets, schools, health facilities, and trading centres, supporting both social and economic activities within the area.
During an inspection tour of the projects in Visoi Ward, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Infrastructure, Eng. Michael Kamau, stated that the Imarisha Barabara programme emphasises proper road construction standards. He noted that the works include heavy grading, gravelling, and proper compaction to ensure that the roads remain serviceable over time and are able to support daily use by residents and transport operators.
Eng. Kamau explained that applying standard construction methods is aimed at reducing frequent maintenance needs and improving safety for road users. He added that the county is focusing on roads that have a direct impact on community livelihoods, particularly in rural areas where access challenges have affected service delivery and economic activities.
The Chief Officer for Infrastructure, Mr. Kennedy Mungai, highlighted the expected economic benefits of the improved road network. He noted that Rongai Sub-County is an agriculturally productive region and that better roads will ease the transportation of farm produce to local and regional markets. Improved access is expected to reduce transport costs, minimise post-harvest losses, and support better returns for farmers.
Mr. Mungai also called on residents to support the technical teams implementing the projects to ensure smooth execution of the works. He emphasised that community cooperation plays a key role in the successful completion of infrastructure projects and in ensuring that the roads serve their intended purpose.
To ensure that the projects align with local needs, the County Chief Officer for Public Participation and Citizen Engagement, Mr. Edward Gitau, stated that transparency and public involvement remain a priority. He assured residents that regular public participation forums will be held to provide updates on the progress of the works and to allow community members to share feedback. He noted that citizen engagement helps the county address concerns early and align infrastructure development with community priorities.
Visoi Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA), Ms. Hellen Megek (Chemuu), commended Governor Susan Kihika for prioritising road infrastructure in the ward. She noted that residents have welcomed the ongoing works, particularly along the Mawe–Bluegham Road, which serves as a key access route for the area. The road connects several villages and supports movement to markets and service centres.
The Imarisha Barabara programme is aligned with Governor Susan Kihika’s manifesto, which identifies infrastructure development as a key pillar for economic growth and service delivery. Under the programme, the county has committed to improving both urban and rural road networks to support trade, agriculture, and access to essential services.
By investing in rural road upgrades, the county aims to promote inclusive development and ensure that communities in all sub-counties benefit from improved infrastructure. The works in Visoi Ward contribute to this goal by strengthening connectivity within Rongai Sub-County and supporting economic activities that rely on reliable transport networks.
As the projects continue, the County Government of Nakuru remains focused on delivering road infrastructure that meets community needs and supports long-term development objectives in line with the county’s development agenda.