The Nairobi Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, a high-capacity bus-based transport system, is set to transform the city’s public transport. Designed to offer faster, more efficient, and reliable service than regular buses, the BRT combines features of metro systems with traditional bus services.
On Thursday, July 17, President William Ruto, alongside Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and other officials, inspected the project plan, signaling renewed government commitment to the long-awaited initiative.
However, according to a recent National Treasury report, the Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (NaMATA) has yet to complete several critical procedures necessary for the project’s execution. Key issues include the construction of BRT Line 2, development and review of BRT designs, and other supporting transport plans.
The report highlights that progress has stalled due to unresolved payment of pending bills to contractors, which has led to suspension of works. Additionally, extended discussions with development partners, partly influenced by recent changes in U.S. foreign assistance policy, have further delayed the project.
Last year, the government secured Ksh7.6 billion through a loan from the Korean Export-Import Bank under the Economic Development Cooperation Fund to kickstart the initiative. The funds are earmarked for BRT Line 5, which will run along a 10.5 km stretch from the Eastern Bypass to the Thika Superhighway.
The ambitious project includes constructing 13 BRT stations, three river bridges, two overpasses, multiple pedestrian footbridges, street lighting, landscaping, and a modern drainage system. Advanced traffic management systems will also be integrated to enhance safety and functionality.
According to the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), construction was initially scheduled to commence in January 2025, with tenders already called. If completed as planned, the Nairobi BRT will be a major upgrade to the city’s transport infrastructure, providing residents with faster, safer, and more reliable travel across Nairobi.
