Enhanced Security for Isiolo-Mandera Road Project Assured

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured contractors working on the Isiolo–Mandera Road Project of enhanced security measures to enable uninterrupted construction of the strategic infrastructure corridor. Murkomen said the government is committed to protecting all gateway infrastructure projects, particularly those traversing regions that have historically faced security challenges. He described the Isiolo–Mandera Road as a transformative development whose impact goes beyond transport to national unity and equitable growth. “Gateway projects are very important for the country, important for national cohesion and equity of the nation,” Murkomen said, noting that the road is a key driver of both development and security in northern Kenya. He added that the project is among the priorities of President William Ruto’s administration, with clear expectations on delivery timelines. “The road is important for development, as it is important for security,” Murkomen said. “The President is expecting the project to be completed in the shortest time possible.” The Interior CS emphasised that security support will not be limited to the Isiolo–Mandera Road alone but will extend to other major projects in volatile regions. “We will not just single out the Isiolo-Mandera Road project but all others in areas that have security challenges,” he stated. Murkomen said the government has adopted a multi-agency approach to secure the project corridor, bringing together different arms of the state for better coordination. “We have developed security protocol and we urged contractors to adhere to them so that we do not give the enemy an opportunity to interfere with the project,” he said. He spoke after a high-level meeting with Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir to fine-tune a joint strategy to safeguard the project and accelerate its implementation. Also present were Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, Defence PS Patrick Mariru and Roads PS Joseph Mbugua. The Isiolo–Mandera Road is a major 740–750 kilometre infrastructure project forming part of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development initiative. The road is designed to connect northern Kenya to Ethiopia and Somalia, significantly boosting cross-border trade, reducing travel time and improving access to essential services across Isiolo, Meru, Wajir, Garissa and Mandera counties. The project has been split into several sections handled by multiple contractors and incorporates additional components such as fibre optic cable installation, construction of new bridges and urban road upgrades in key towns. Earthworks and asphalt laying are already underway in several sections, with the project expected to transform the region’s economy and enhance connectivity by 2027. Murkomen said the road will also play a crucial role in improving security operations and supporting community water initiatives along the corridor, helping to stabilise the region and uplift surrounding communities. Tuya pledged full commitment to strategic coordination among the three ministries to ensure the project is delivered on schedule. “We will even work with the local players to make sure the project is delivered in real time,” she said. “It is in the interest of the country and the region that the project is completed in good time because of its strategic nature,” Tuya added Chirchir thanked security agencies for their support, saying it has been critical in enabling contractors to continue working despite challenges. “We want all the sections to move at the same pace. We will bring all the contractors to speed,” he said. Chirchir also noted that the project will deliver broader socio-economic benefits to communities along the corridor. “We will provide social and economical support to communities along the corridor,” he added.