The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced the commencement of a sensitization program for the construction of the 740-kilometer Multinational Horn of Africa Isiolo-Mandera Corridor, Elwak-Rhamu road.
In a notice published on Tuesday, April 1, KeNHA revealed that it had received financing from the African Development Fund (ADF) for the construction of the road and the implementation of a road safety audit, awareness, and sensitization program.
The primary purpose of the road safety audit is to identify and mitigate potential safety issues in road projects, minimize accidents that may occur after the completion of the project, and improve overall road safety.
According to the Authority, the sensitization program will include a review of previous Road Safety Audits in the detailed design and the incorporation of additional proposals to enhance road safety during and after the project's implementation.
During the construction stage, KeNHA revealed that it would also conduct temporary traffic management safety audits to identify potential safety concerns.
The Authority will also perform a post-construction road safety audit to determine how motorists and pedestrians interact with and adapt to the improved facility. This audit will aim to identify any potential safety issues and recommend remedial measures.
"The government has received financing from the African Development Fund (ADF) in various currencies towards the cost of the Horn of Africa Isiolo-Mandera Corridor: Elwak-Rhamu Road (A13) Upgrading Project," KeNHA announced.
"It intends to apply part of the proceeds from the loan to make eligible payments under the contract for the Consultancy Services for Project Road Safety Audit and Road Safety Awareness and Sensitization Campaigns," the Authority added.
As per the notice, the road safety audit will take four years, with three years of the construction phase and 12 months of the defects notification period.
Besides the Africa Development Fund, the government also received additional funds from the World Bank towards the construction of the same road which is part of the Project Development Objective (PDO) of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP).
According to World Bank documents obtained by Kenyans.co.ke, the government received Ksh96 billion for the project, which is set to be implemented in phases, with the final phase set to be completed in 2029.
KeNHA, in a previous notice, dated February 24, 2025, disclosed that the project aimed at enhancing connectivity between Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, improving the movement of people and goods, and strengthening digital connectivity.
