Road construction improves security and trade in West Pokot County

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is upgrading a 31.4-kilometre stretch of the B17 Road in West Pokot County, Kenya, to improve security and economic activity.

Residents of Tot previously fled their homes and sought education in other towns like Eldoret due to frequent banditry and insecurity. The new road connects communities across West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Baringo counties, which were previously isolated by poor infrastructure and conflict over grazing land.

The project allows security officers to reach remote areas more quickly to respond to incidents. It also facilitates easier transport of livestock and agricultural products like mangoes to the Lomut and Sigor markets. Residents report that the improved access is increasing business activity and creating a higher demand for property in the region. The Government of Kenya funded the project, which has already created jobs for more than 300 people, many of whom are young workers.

Engineers report that major earthworks are about 90 per cent complete, with ongoing work on three bridges at Parkino, Chepkuikui, and Murunji River.