BY EMMANUEL KIPRUTO
For years, the road had been in been in a poor condition despite being a major link between Londiani and Makutano and also to the main highway that is Nakuru Eldoret link. Residents of Londiani, Makutano and the neighboring areas have welcomed the commencement of the upgrade of the road on 10th July. The project is described as a milestone that is expected to transform transport, boost trade and improve access to essential services in the area.
The road had posed many challenges to motorists, farmers, traders and public transport operators, particularly during the rainy season when sections became muddy and difficult to navigate. This made many areas along the road not to be accessible at all, for example, schools, hospitals, and also services from government institutions. The poor state of the road often led to increased transport costs, delays and damage to vehicles.
That road serves as a vital transport corridor connecting places; it will now become a very good link between Londiani and Makutano, providing access to schools, health facilities, markets and neighbouring communities. Once completed, the tarmac road is expected to reduce travel time, lower transport costs and stimulate economic growth between the two major centers, thus welcoming investors to the place and creating an economically friendly place to people.
A local farmer, Richard Koskey, stated that for many years, I have struggled to transport my dairy products to the cooler because of the poor road conditions, especially during the rainy season, when many losses occur during transportation. This project has given me hope, and it has encouraged me to do more on milk production as it will make farming more profitable.
Boda-boda riders were not left behind as they joined the community to welcome the project. “A smooth tarmac road means less wear and tear on our motorcycles and quicker movement for our customers also it will help reduce fuel consumption because of reduced time wastage travelling. It will improve our business and make travelling safer,” said a boda-boda rider Ben Kinyua, operating along the route.
Speaking during the commencement of the project, Dennis Langat, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Officer, said the road upgrade reflects the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure that directly benefits local communities. “The upgrading of the Londiani–Makutano road to bitumen standards is a transformative investment for our constituency. Once completed, it will improve connectivity, reduce transport costs, support local businesses, enhance access to schools and health facilities, and stimulate economic growth. We appreciate the patience of residents and urge everyone to cooperate with the contractor to ensure the project is completed within the expected timeline,” said Dennis Langat.
The Londiani–Makutano road project is expected to improve the movement of people for easy access of goods and services while strengthening economic links within Kipkelion East and the wider Kericho County
