Motorway in Kenya Nairobi Expressway

The Nairobi Expressway is intended to relieve traffic in the Kenyan capital. But right from the start, there were also critical voices. In this photo reportage, Julian Manjahi and Eliphas Nyamogo show what the structure looks like and what people have to say about it.

Officially opened in 2022, the double-decker highway spans approximately 27 kilometers and connects the area around the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to the city centre and outlying settlements. The Expressway operates on a toll basis, providing a faster route for motorists who choose to pay for this option. It is part of a broader investment in Kenya's transport infrastructure, aimed at improving road connectivity and supporting the country’s economic growth. Talking to ordinary residents and commuters in Nairobi, you get the impression that their views on the new motorway are as varied as the conversations themselves. Frank Ojwang, environmental activist: “While we recognise the need for infrastructure development, the Nairobi Expressway raises significant environmental concerns. The focus on car-based solutions exacerbates pollution and overlooks sustainable urban transport options such as cycling and public transport”.
  Paula Njeri, small scale textiles business owner: “The expressway has indirectly benefited my business by reducing delivery times and costs. However, the toll fees are an additional burden, especially for businesses like mine that rely on frequent transport of goods”.
  Bram Baraza, student, Open University of Kenya: “The Nairobi Expressway is a key investment that could boost economic growth by improving logistics and attracting foreign investment. However, it's important to balance this with equitable development that benefits all segments of society”.
  Grace Nyaga, journalist (non-user): “I live near the expressway, but I cannot afford to use it. It's frustrating to see that a road whose construction was intended to make life easier remains out of reach for many Kenyans because of the exorbitant costs of using it”.
  James Mwaura, architect: “The Expressway is a step forward in addressing Nairobi's chronic traffic congestion. However, in order to guarantee sustainable value-addition, we need to integrate it with comprehensive public transport improvements and smart urban planning to avoid replicating the congestion it seeks to alleviate”.
  Anastacia Kemunto, urban commuter: “The Nairobi Expressway is a game changer for me. My daily commute has been halved and I now have more time for my family and personal pursuits. Considering the convenience and time I save, the toll is a price worth paying”.

Nairobi Expressway – Photo Gallery