NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has outlined a series of major infrastructure and development projects set for completion or rollout in 2026, describing the year as a period of “execution at scale” for his administration.
In his New Year address, the President highlighted key projects across sports, transport, irrigation, and aviation sectors.
Among the flagship initiatives is the completion of the Talanta Sports Complex, which Ruto said will be positioned to host major international sporting events, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
He also announced the finalization of the Bomas International Convention Centre, which will be restored as a premier venue for national and international conferences, supporting Kenya’s ambition to become a regional hub for global events.
On road infrastructure, the President pledged to accelerate the tarmacking of 6,000 kilometres of roads already contracted and under construction nationwide. Key among these is the Rironi–Mau Summit Road, slated for completion and opening by mid-2027.
Funding has already been secured to extend the road from Mau Summit to Eldoret and Malaba, as well as from Mau Summit through Kericho to Malaba.
Ruto further announced plans to begin construction of new highways in 2026 to enhance national connectivity and facilitate the movement of goods and people.
“Changing and transforming a country does not require a miracle. It requires a clear and bold vision, and a leadership equal to that vision. The nations that have succeeded were not exceptional by accident; they were deliberate by choice,” the President said.
In rail infrastructure, the government will commence construction of the Naivasha–Narok–Bomet–Nyamira–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). Ruto emphasized that the project will create a modern transport and logistics corridor linking Kenya to East and Central Africa, enhancing regional trade and integration.
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The President also highlighted ongoing irrigation projects, noting the recent signing of the Galana-Kulalu dam contract, along with plans for several other dams, aimed at expanding irrigation infrastructure to bring 2.5 million acres of land under irrigation.
“We will also begin the construction of a modern, world-class airport at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, to anchor our nation as the aviation capital of our region and to boost our trade and tourism sectors,” he said.
These initiatives form part of the administration’s broader agenda to stimulate economic growth, improve national infrastructure, and position Kenya as a regional transport and investment hub.
