The Ministry of Transport has pledged transparency in the implementation of the proposed Road Tolling Policy, which seeks to raise additional revenue from motorists using major roads.
Addressing Kenyans on Saturday, March 1, during a public participation forum conducted jointly with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) officials, the ministry also promised to reinvest the toll revenues into infrastructure.
To address potential system hitches and speed up the toll fee payment process, the Ministry of Transport promised the adoption of modern payment systems.
The move followed concerns by Kenyans who attended the public participation forum. During the discussions, members of the public expressed their reservations about toll affordability.
The attendees, who were mostly from the transport sector, also expressed concerns about fairness and the method that will be used in collecting the toll fees.
While venting their concerns, the attendees recommended further awareness campaigns and nationwide consultations to ensure all stakeholders are informed and involved in the policy’s development.
Meanwhile, KeNHA officials who spoke after the public consultation forum called on Kenyans to continue sharing their thoughts on the new proposed tolling policy to ensure informed decision-making.
Kenyans seeking to add their input on the Road Tolling Policy were urged to share their feedback via email to ps@roads.go.ke or through the public participation feedback form: t.co/ViIFJEHMZN
“These sessions aim to inform residents, transport operators, and local leaders about the policy’s objectives and implementation plans,” KeNHA noted.
“To share your thoughts on the proposed Road Tolling Policy, please participate in the ongoing public consultations. Your feedback is essential in shaping a fair and effective policy for all.”
The latest development comes a week after the Ministry of Roads commenced public participation for the proposed tolling policy, which aims to help the government ease the financial burden of maintaining existing roads while constructing new ones.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, while speaking on February 24 in Nairobi, called on the public and stakeholders to actively participate in the process to improve the policy.
“Every view, input, comment, suggestion, and recommendation will be considered to ensure equity and inclusivity in the final implementation process of the tolling policy,” the CS reiterated.
