In a significant development, President William Ruto’s administration has decided to suspend the controversial tolling plan for key routes, including the Southern Bypass and the Nairobi-Thika Superhighway.
The decision, which comes amid public outcry and logistical challenges, has been described by officials as a necessary step to re-evaluate the effectiveness and fairness of the proposed tolling scheme.
The tolling plan, introduced as a solution to fund highway maintenance and repay private investors for their contributions to road construction, was intended to generate substantial revenue.
However, according to the Treasury, the project failed to meet its revenue targets, leaving the plan financially unsustainable.
The shortfall in funds hindered the repayment of investors and created uncertainty about the future of the infrastructure investments.
Treasury officials disclosed that the initial projections had underestimated the economic impact on road users and the revenue potential of the tolling system.
As a result, the government has opted to freeze the project while it reassesses which roads are suitable for tolling and how the scheme can be more effectively implemented
“The suspension is part of a broader review process aimed at ensuring that the tolling system benefits both the public and the investors,” said a Treasury spokesperson.
“We need to identify new roads that will support a more balanced approach to funding maintenance and development without overburdening commuters.
“The pause in the tolling plan has been met with mixed reactions. While some stakeholders and members of the public have welcomed the government’s decision as a move towards greater transparency and fairness, others remain concerned about the potential impact on infrastructure projects and the overall financing of road maintenance.
Local businesses and commuters had expressed concerns about the high costs associated with the tolls, which they feared would lead to increased transportation expenses and reduced economic activity.In the interim, the government has committed to conducting a thorough analysis of the road network and engaging with various stakeholders to determine the most equitable approach to tolling.
This review process will involve consultations with local authorities, transport experts, and the public to ensure that any future tolling plans are well-founded and widely accepted.
The suspension of the tolling scheme represents a pivotal moment for the administration as it navigates the complexities of infrastructure financing.
The outcome of this review will likely shape future policies on road funding and public-private partnerships, aiming to balance economic growth with sustainable infrastructure development.
