KENYA: Climate proofing rural roads in Arid and Semi-Arid Land areas

ASAL areas have the lowest development indicators and the highest incidence of poverty in Kenya. Climate-proofed infrastructure is one of the main priorities of the Kenyan government, focusing on filling the significant infrastructure deficit in the economically marginalized ASAL areas.

A more robust infrastructure will stimulate investment and growth, lower the cost of doing business, and improve the security and stability of the region.

Recognizing the marginalization faced by communities in ASAL areas, AFD is collaborating with the EU and Government of Kenya to build all season roads to provide access to markets and basic services in 6 ASAL counties thus reducing their vulnerability to drought.

The intervention is aimed at different clusters of ASAL, prioritizing counties with the highest untapped agricultural potential that would be unlocked through investment in road infrastructure.

Construction works will include bush clearance, road camber reshaping, gravelling, compacting, culvert and bridge repairs, etc.  

In addition to infrastructure construction, this project will build capacity of local contractors, consultants and entities in charge in road maintenance through training in labour based road construction methods (including improvement of roads).

This project will lead to realization of the following benefits:

• Upgrading of between 800km to 1200km of rural roads by either gravelling or paving;
• Improved livelihoods for communities in the 23 most drought prone counties of Kenya (estimated 15 million people), helping them to become more resilient to floods, drought and ending drought emergencies;
• All-season access to road transportation for people and goods (including relief foods in times of drought), fostering agricultural growth (livestock and crop production) and access to markets, enhancing trade development, investment and socio-economic development;
• Over 500 contractors and technical staff from the implementing agency will be trained at regional level and at headquarters.