NAIROBI – In a heated parliamentary session, Eldas MP Adan Keynan has called on the government to deliver “truthful, accurate, fair, and consistent” updates on the beleaguered Isiolo-Mandera highway, accusing lingering bureaucratic forces of perpetuating decades of neglect in Northern Kenya.
The 750-kilometer mega-project, touted as a game-changer for the arid region’s economy, has been plagued by unexplained delays, particularly on the critical Madogashe-Habaswein stretch.
Keynan’s impassioned plea came during a debate on infrastructure commitments, where he urged National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to lead a fact-finding tour along the route from Isiolo through Madogashe, Habaswein, Wajir, Elwak, and Mandera. “This is not the first question, not the first statement, not the first commitment,” Keynan lamented, highlighting repeated unfulfilled promises. He zeroed in on the Madogashe-Habaswein section, under the annuity financing model, as a flashpoint for frustration. “I’m aware something is happening between Isiolo to Madogashe,” he said, implying opaque dealings.
The MP’s remarks echoed a broader grievance rooted in Sessional Paper No. 10 of 1965, the post-independence blueprint on “African Socialism and Its Application to Planning in Kenya.”
That document enshrined a “high potential areas” focus, sidelining ASAL regions like Northern Kenya—effectively extending colonial-era “closed district” policies that restricted investment and mobility.
Certain elements are still hellbent on implementing that Sessional Paper,” Keynan charged, demanding an honest reckoning “however bad it is.”
Joining the chorus was Wajir West MP Yussuf Farah alias Muliro, who sought a detailed statement on the Madogashe-Habaswein upgrade to bitumen standards. Muliro pressed for reasons behind the “continued delay” and a firm completion timeline, underscoring how the gravel road’s perils—dust storms, breakdowns, and isolation—exacerbate insecurity and economic stagnation.
Launched in phases since 2022, the Sh100 billion ($770 million) highway aims to link Kenya’s northeast to Ethiopia and Somalia, boosting trade and jobs.
Phase 1 (Isiolo-Kulamawe-Modogashe, 200 km) stands at 40% completion, with full works eyed for March 2026. Yet, security threats and funding hiccups have stalled progress, including the Modogashe-Samatar-Wajir leg.
A fresh $46 million contract to a Chinese firm, awarded last week, signals momentum for the northeastern corridor.
Analysts warn that without transparency, the project risks reinforcing marginalization narratives. “This road isn’t just asphalt—it’s a lifeline for 5 million Kenyans,” said regional economist Amina Hassan.
As MPs vow oversight, Northern leaders hope for deeds over words, lest history’s shadows eclipse President Ruto’s vision for equitable growth.
