Senators Probe KeNHA for Locking Out Kenyan Contractors in Kiambu Road Expansion Tender
Senators have raised alarm over what they call discriminatory tendering practices by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), following revelations that a multimillion-shilling road project in Kiambu was initially restricted to foreign firms, specifically Chinese contractors.
The controversy centres on KeNHA’s now-cancelled tender for the expansion of the Muthaiga–Kiambu–Ndumberi Road into a four-lane dual carriageway. Legislators say the procurement process excluded Kenyan firms by design, with eligibility conditions reportedly tailored to suit Chinese companies.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka led the charge, calling the tender terms unconstitutional.
“The condition raises serious concerns about the fairness, inclusivity, and legality of this procurement process, particularly given our constitutional principles on competition, non-discrimination, and value for money in public procurement,” said Onyonka.
The procurement notice, which was issued under Tender No. KeNHA/2889/2025, was quietly cancelled before its August 22 deadline. No official reason has been given.
KeNHA had defended the criteria, citing loan terms from China Exim Bank that required the project to be undertaken by Chinese contractors or consortia led by them. But senators argue that such funding agreements must not override Kenyan procurement laws or constitutional protections.
The Senate Roads, Transport and Housing Committee, chaired by Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, has now been tasked with investigating the matter. The committee will examine whether KeNHA’s tender complied with procurement laws and whether it properly considered joint ventures with local firms.
“We expect the committee to recommend measures to ensure that future infrastructure projects promote fair competition, enhance local participation, and uphold transparency and accountability,” Onyonka added.
Marsabit Senator Mohamed Chute backed the inquiry, saying similar foreign-favoured tender conditions have been observed in other major infrastructure deals across the country.
The proposed Kiambu Road upgrade, officially dubbed the Capacity Enhancement of Pangani–Muthaiga–Kiambu–Ndumberi (B32) Road and Adjacent Road Network, is a key part of government efforts to improve mobility between Nairobi and Kiambu County. The scope includes upgrades to Ridgeways Road, the Kiambu–Thika Road link, UN Avenue through Runda, and multiple junctions.
KeNHA has outlined a broad scope of work including road expansion, pedestrian infrastructure, and bus bays. The project will be executed under FIDIC Silver Book standards and is expected to take 36 months, followed by a 24-month defects notification period.
The new corridor will also feature six pedestrian footbridges, walkways, interchanges, and intelligent traffic systems, all aimed at easing congestion and enhancing safety for motorists and pedestrians.
Despite the project’s promise, lawmakers insist local contractors must not be sidelined in national development initiatives. The Senate committee is expected to table its findings and recommendations in the coming weeks.
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