Tharaka Nithi residents welcome key road projects as infrastructure push gains momentum

Among the flagship projects underway is the upgrading of the Miomponi-Mukothima-Gatunga road to bitumen standards, a development that has sparked excitement among communities in Nkondi, Mukothima and Gatunga wards.

The 30-kilometre road project, being implemented by the Kenya Rural Roads Authority, links several trading centres including Irunduni, Miomponi, Mukothima, Gaciongo, Turima Tweru and Gatunga. The road is part of the government’s broader infrastructure development agenda aimed at opening up rural regions and enhancing access to markets and essential services.

According to the latest project update from KeRRA, construction works are about 40 percent complete, with 12 kilometres already upgraded to bitumen standard.

Residents say the project is expected to significantly ease transportation challenges that have for years hampered movement, especially during the rainy season when sections of the road became impassable.

Ms Charity Mbugi, the Headteacher of Irunduni Primary School, welcomed the project, saying it would improve access to the institution and benefit learners, teachers and parents alike.

“The road will link the school to the main road, so we are very happy. Accessing the school will now be much easier,” she said.

She added that the project had renewed hope within the community and would positively impact education and economic activities in the area.

Irunduni Primary School is among the region’s notable institutions and counts Deputy President Kithure Kindiki among its former students.

The upgraded road is also expected to improve accessibility to Tharaka University, enhancing mobility for students, staff and local residents.

Beyond improving transport, the project has also created employment opportunities for local youth working as skilled and unskilled labourers under the contractor.

Mr Muthuri Naman, a local youth leader, said many young people in the area had secured jobs through the project.

He praised President William Ruto and Deputy President Kindiki for prioritising infrastructure projects in rural areas, saying the improved roads would help unlock economic potential in Tharaka Nithi.

“The government is doing many things at the grassroots level and we are witnessing the changes ourselves. We have waited for these projects for many years,” he said.

He noted that farmers, who form the majority of residents in the area, had long struggled to transport produce to markets due to poor road conditions.

“Once the road is completed, farmers will be able to access markets easily. It will also support local businesses and improve access to Tharaka University,” he added.