Nairobi has taken a significant step towards addressing its chronic traffic congestion, securing Sh43.4 billion (€320 million) in funding from international partners to develop the Clean Core Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line 3. This initiative is expected to transform urban mobility and promote sustainable transportation within the city, marking a historic moment for Nairobi’s infrastructure development.
The financing was approved by key international entities, including the European Investment Bank (EIB), the French Development Agency (AFD), and the European Union (EU), following extensive negotiations with Nairobi County officials. At a meeting held on December 11, 2024, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja expressed his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its importance for the city’s future.
“This funding represents a boost to Nairobi’s transportation infrastructure. Our partners have approved €320 million for the Clean Core BRT Line 3. This is a historic moment for our city,” Sakaja stated.
Project Phases and Route Details
The first phase of the BRT Line 3 project will construct a 12-kilometre route stretching from Dandora to Kenyatta National Hospital along Juja Road. The subsequent phase aims to extend the line connecting Tala to Dandora and further linking KNH to Ngong. This strategic expansion is envisioned to alleviate congestion in some of the city’s busiest areas.
The innovative BRT system will primarily utilize electric buses, aligning with Nairobi’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the overall quality of urban life. “This isn’t just about buses; it’s about transforming how our people live, work, and move. Cleaner, safer, and more efficient transportation will uplift the livelihoods of millions of Nairobians,” Governor Sakaja added.
Design and feasibility studies for the system are already complete, with construction anticipated to commence in early 2025.
Broader Urban Mobility Plan
The Clean Core BRT Line 3 forms part of Nairobi’s comprehensive urban mobility plan. This plan encompasses pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, non-motorized transport options, and intelligent traffic management technologies aimed at improving overall city transport efficiency.
In September 2024, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) had also announced plans to implement the Sh7.3 billion BRT Line 5, which will run along Outer Ring Road. Funded by the Korean Exim Bank and developed in collaboration with the South Korean Economic Development Cooperation Fund, this 10.4-kilometre line will incorporate advanced infrastructure features like dedicated bus lanes, electric vehicle charging stations, and enhanced safety systems including CCTV and Vehicle Enforcement Systems.
Tackling Traffic Congestion
Nairobi currently faces severe traffic challenges, prompting the implementation of five BRT lines under the Nairobi Integrated Urban Development Master Plan. These lines are designed to combat vehicular congestion in the Central Business District (CBD).
Overview of Existing BRT Lines
- Line 1 (Ndovu): Runs from Limuru-Kangemi-CBD-Imara Daima-Athi River to Kitengela.
- Line 2 (Simba): Connects Rongai-Bomas-Langata Road-CBD-Ruiru-Thika to Kenol. It is 70% complete and is being implemented in two pilot phases.
- Phase one will cover Kasarani to Kenyatta National Hospital.
- Phase two will extend from Ruiru to KNH, featuring 13 intermediate stations with 24 platforms.
- A park-and-ride facility is being constructed at Kasarani to encourage motorists to leave their vehicles and transfer to BRT buses.
- Line 3 (Chui): Will connect Tala-Njiru-Dandora (Juja Road)-CBD-Show Ground (Ngong Road) to Ngong.
- Line 4 (Kifaru): Comprises two branches:
- East runs from Mama Lucy Hospital-Donholm (Jogoo Road)-CBD.
- West flows from CBD-T Mall-Bomas-Karen to Kikuyu.
These initiatives collectively aim to decongest the city, improve travel times, and enhance the quality of life for Nairobi residents.
Future Prospects and Stakeholder Involvement
Governor Sakaja has called upon various stakeholders to rally behind the BRT project, framing it as a critical partnership for Nairobi’s future. “We are determined to deliver a world-class transport system for our people,” he asserted during discussions with funding partners.
The Clean Core BRT system represents an ambitious attempt to not only streamline public transportation but also to provide a cost-effective and efficient mode of travel for the city’s diverse population. Through this initiative, Nairobi hopes to establish a more sustainable and technologically advanced public transportation framework, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions in the process.
As the project progresses, the positive impact on commute times is anticipated to benefit both residents and local businesses, reinforcing Nairobi’s long-term sustainability goals.
With the groundbreaking set for early next year, the success of the Clean Core BRT Line 3 could signal a new era of urban transport in Nairobi, paving the way for future developments in public transit across the region.
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