The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) last week pulled the plug on its tender to expand Kiambu-Road into a four‑lane highway. The abrupt revocation, just days after inviting bids, has left commuters and contractors uncertain.
The tender, issued on 15 July, was open solely to Chinese firms through a deal funded by China’s Export‑Import Bank. Within a week, KeNHA revoked the invitation without offering any reason.
The Controversial Tender
The project aimed to convert the existing two‑lane section from Pangani in Nairobi through Muthaiga and Kiambu to Ndumberi, into a four‑lane dual carriageway. It also included six footbridges and new overpasses at key junctions.
The tender stipulated that bidders must be Chinese or Chinese‑led and have achieved a minimum annual turnover of Sh32 billion (€220 million) over the past five years.
Stakeholder Backlash
Critics said this preference for Chinese firms violated Kenya’s Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, which favours local contractors.
The move drew swift criticism from trade bodies and civil society groups alert to procurement fairness.
No Explanation Provided
On 22 July, KeNHA issued a terse notice stating the tender had been cancelled, offering no further explanation. The notice did not name financial, legal, or technical concerns as reasons.
What Happens Next?
It remains unclear whether KeNHA will restart the tender under new conditions or shelve the project. Some insiders suggest the authority may need to revisit both scope and funding due to safeguards around competition and legal compliance.
Responce
KeNHA did not respond to requests for comment. Supporters of the deal highlight the value of backing from the China Exim Bank, while sceptics warn of overspending and lack of local industry involvement.
The road, used by thousands daily, suffers severe traffic and rising accidents. Its upgrade is seen as a key element in decongesting Nairobi’s northern suburbs and improving regional mobility.
KeNHA’s sudden cancellation of the tender for the Kiambu-Road expansion intended for Chinese firms alone highlights urgent issues around procurement law, local participation and pressure to improve Nairobi’s traffic woes. Without clarity from officials, the fate of the project remains uncertain.
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