A major infrastructure project is underway in Tharaka Nithi County, where Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced the start of construction of a new KSh 7.5 billion bridge across River Nithi. The project is expected to address longstanding safety concerns at one of Kenya’s most dangerous highway crossings while improving transport along the busy Nairobi–Embu–Meru route.
Highlights
- The new River Nithi Bridge will cost KSh 7.5 billion, according to Kindiki.
- The bridge is planned to measure 880 metres long and 100 metres high.
- The project includes 2.7 kilometres of approach roads linking Marima and Mitheru trading centres.
- Construction is expected to take 24 months.
- The government says funding has been secured to support the project through construction.
Main Story
Construction Begins on New River Nithi Bridge
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced the commencement of construction works on a new bridge across River Nithi in Maara Constituency, Tharaka Nithi County.
Speaking during the launch on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Kindiki said the KSh 7.5 billion project is intended to provide a safer crossing along the Nairobi–Embu–Meru highway, a key transport corridor connecting Nairobi with counties in the Mount Kenya East region.
The planned bridge will stretch 880 metres and rise 100 metres above the surrounding terrain. The project will also include 2.7 kilometres of approach roads connecting Marima and Mitheru trading centres.
Addressing a Longstanding Road Safety Concern
The existing River Nithi Bridge, built in 1985, has been associated with numerous fatal road accidents over the decades.
Crashes involving buses, lorries and private vehicles have made the crossing a major concern for motorists travelling along the highway. Residents have repeatedly called for a safer alternative after years of deadly incidents at the site.
The new structure is expected to improve safety for road users while providing a more reliable connection for people travelling between different parts of the country.
Why the Project Took Time to Start
Kindiki acknowledged that the project had faced delays, attributing the slow progress to the complexity of the engineering requirements and the substantial funding needed to build the new crossing.
He said President William Ruto’s administration had committed to replacing the bridge after taking office in 2022, but additional time was needed to complete the technical planning and arrange the necessary financing.
According to the Deputy President, the government has now secured and set aside the KSh 7.5 billion required for the works, with the intention of avoiding funding interruptions during construction.
Government Targets Completion Within Two Years
The construction period is estimated at 24 months, although Kindiki said the government would explore ways to complete the bridge sooner without compromising engineering requirements or public safety.
If the project stays on schedule, the new crossing could significantly improve travel along the highway, which serves passengers, traders and businesses moving between Nairobi and the Mount Kenya East region.
The additional approach roads are also expected to improve access to Marima and Mitheru, strengthening connections between the trading centres and the wider road network.
Attention will now turn to the pace of construction, adherence to safety standards and whether the project meets its announced completion target.
For families and motorists who have travelled this dangerous stretch for years, the real milestone will not simply be a new bridge, but the lives it helps protect once it opens.
