A section of residents from West Pokot County has expressed strong support for the National Government’s plan to introduce a road tolling policy along the Kapenguria-Lodwar highway.
The policy, which is part of the government’s broader efforts to manage increasing traffic congestion and improve road safety, is seen as a potential solution to the mounting challenges posed by heavy truck traffic, especially after the opening of the Sebit Cement Factory.
During a public participation forum at Mtelo Hall in Kapenguria on Wednesday, locals voiced their backing for the draft Road Tolling Policy 2025, citing the rising number of lorries transporting clinker from the factory.
The introduction of the tolling system is viewed as a way to generate funds for the construction and maintenance of alternative roads to alleviate congestion and reduce accidents, particularly in high-risk areas like Kamatira.
The Kapenguria-Lodwar road has seen a dramatic increase in heavy commercial trucks since the Sebit Cement Factory began operations.
This surge has led to significant traffic bottlenecks and, more concerning, a rise in accidents.
Many residents, including Bodaboda operators who are frequent road users, argue that the tolling policy could help address these issues.
Augustine Tumunyo, the Bodaboda County Chairman, was among the key speakers at the forum. He emphasized the tolling policy’s potential to benefit small-scale transport operators.
“The number of lorries on this road has increased drastically, making it difficult for us to operate safely. If the government introduces tolling, the funds can be used to build an alternative road for bodaboda riders and other small vehicles, reducing accidents,” Tumunyo explained.
He also pointed out the dangers posed by reckless overtaking by lorry drivers, especially in accident-prone areas like Kamatira.
“We have seen too many accidents on this road. The government should implement tolling and use the funds to construct bypasses and safer roads for pedestrians and motorcyclists,” said Sarah Chemutai, a Kapenguria resident.
The Ministry of Roads and Transport, which developed the draft Road Tolling Policy 2025, has emphasized the importance of public consultation in the development of the tolling framework.
The initiative is designed to raise funds for road infrastructure development, maintenance, and rehabilitation, with the goal of easing traffic congestion and enhancing road safety across key highways.
A ministry official present at the forum highlighted the policy’s goal of ensuring that those who use vital roadways contribute to their upkeep.
“This policy is meant to ensure that those using key highways contribute to their maintenance and improvement. The government is committed to addressing the challenges posed by increasing road traffic, and we value the input of residents in this process,” the official stated.
While many residents are supportive of the policy, some raised concerns about the potential cost of toll fees. Paul Korinyang, a local resident, expressed his worries about the fairness of toll rates and the transparency of fund allocation.
“This country has a lot of corruption loopholes. We need to be assured of how the funds will be used to construct the road. Kenya Revenue Authority is also taxing us,” Korinyang said, stressing the importance of ensuring accountability in the tolling system.
In response to these concerns, government officials assured the public that the tolling system would be implemented with transparency and fairness.
The funds collected, they explained, would be earmarked for road improvements and safety measures, ensuring that road users benefit directly from the tolling initiative.
As public participation continues, the government is expected to refine the draft policy and prepare for the rollout of tolling measures across key highways, including the Kapenguria-Lodwar road.
Residents remain hopeful that the introduction of the tolling system will not only regulate heavy traffic but also contribute to safer roads, better infrastructure, and fewer accidents along one of the region’s busiest transport corridors.
The ongoing consultation process demonstrates the government’s commitment to engaging with local communities to create a road tolling framework that balances infrastructure needs with the financial capabilities of the public.
