The construction of the Ksh160 billion Rironi-Nakuru-Mau Sumit road will resume following the intervention of the French government.
On Monday, January 16, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua confirmed that the government would proceed with the project which had been put on hold over cost concerns.
Gachagua made the announcement after meeting with French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet. However, he noted that a review of the bill must be done.
“We remain open to having further discussions with the developer, which we hope will result in giving Kenyan taxpayers the best value for their money,” the Deputy President indicated.
On his part, Suquet reiterated that France was key in delivering the project which was crucial to the diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
“This remains a priority project when it comes to the relationship between the two countries. We remain aware of the importance of investment and trade between us," the French envoy stated.
The ambassador disclosed that President Emmanuel Macron would host President William Ruto in France to hold further discussions on bilateral relations.
Gachagua welcomed the idea adding that it would open more opportunities for Kenyan investors.
Meanwhile, the French government made a donation of about Ksh134 million (1 million euros) for drought mitigation. The funds would be used to construct and rehabilitate boreholes in Marsabit, Isiolo, and Samburu counties.
Kenya is France's leading trade and investment partner in East Africa shipping out goods worth Ksh11.9 billion to the European nation. Goods worth Ksh25.4 billion were shipped in from France in 2021 alone.
France contributed to 10 per cent of Kenya's direct and indirect commercial investments and is considered Kenya's 5th-largest investor. Through the Movement Des Entreprises De France (MEDEF) it pumped in stock worth Ksh148 billion.
