Makueni County is set to undergo a massive transformation, thanks to the upcoming Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway, a KSh 455 billion infrastructure project that promises to reshape Kenya’s economic landscape.
Stretching 444 kilometres, the expressway will cut through 110 kilometres of Makueni, positioning the county as a central hub in the transport corridor linking Kenya’s capital to its main port city.
Once complete, the expressway is expected to reduce travel time between Nairobi and Mombasa to just five hours, improving logistics, trade, and mobility.
During a courtesy call on Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, Evergreen Capital’s Kyle McCarter—representing the financiers of the project—revealed that the blueprint includes the creation of three new cities along the highway, potentially turning sleepy towns into thriving economic centres.
“This project will not only connect two major cities; it will spark new life along its route,” McCarter said. “Makueni stands to benefit immensely from this development.”
The expressway, which includes 12 exits, 8 rest areas, and 3 wildlife crossings, is expected to take four years to complete. With construction comes a boost in employment, demand for local materials, and opportunities for businesses to serve the influx of travellers and investors.
County leaders have lauded the move, citing the expressway as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to elevate Makueni’s economy.
“We are not just talking about a road,” said Deputy Governor Mulili. “We’re talking about new towns, new jobs, new futures.”
