The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, aimed at alleviating Nairobi’s transport challenges, faces hurdles as the contractor demands payment of Sh2 billion for completed works, despite Treasury allocations.
Despite budgetary allocations in the 2022–23 and 2023–2024 financial years totaling Sh2.3 billion, only Sh500 million has been earmarked for payment to the contractor, leaving a significant outstanding amount.
A source within the Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority disclosed that the contractor has agreed to resume work upon receipt of the partial payment, with plans to review the contract to accommodate delays due to funding shortages.
However, signs of aging are already apparent in some constructed stations, raising concerns about the project’s durability. Furthermore, the progress of the park-and-ride facility near Kasarani has stalled, exacerbating existing transport challenges.
The BRT initiative, aimed at enhancing transport efficiency and reducing congestion, is of paramount importance for Nairobi’s metropolitan area, covering five counties and a population of over 10 million.
Traffic congestion in Nairobi alone is estimated to cost the country Sh2 billion annually, while air pollution, largely attributed to the transport sector, contributes to over 5,400 premature deaths yearly.
To address these issues, the BRT project, undertaken by Chinese firm Stecol Corporation, aims to provide fast, reliable, clean, safe, and affordable transport options.
Named after animals like Ndovu, Simba, Chui, Kifaru, and Nyati, the BRT lines are designed to cover key transport corridors, accommodating up to 950 high-capacity electric buses.
The system will feature cashless fare payments and cater to diverse needs, including accessibility for children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
