The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has publicly opposed the government’s plan for an elevated expressway along the Nairobi‑Thika corridor, arguing that current traffic bottlenecks should be addressed before new construction.

The project is estimated at KSh200 billion, with some reports citing a range of KSh150 billion to KSh200 billion for a 60‑kilometre elevated road linking Thika town to Museum Hill in Nairobi, where it would join the Nairobi Expressway.

President William Ruto announced the scheme during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations in December 2025, and the government says it will be delivered through a public‑private partnership.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki indicated that President Ruto is expected to preside over a groundbreaking ceremony within one to two months of 28 October 2026, while design and feasibility studies launched in October 2026 will assess engineering, traffic, environmental and land‑use aspects.

MAK’s objections focus on the impact of supporting pillars and concrete structures on the corridor below, citing reduced natural light, increased noise and pollution, and potential loss of attractiveness for businesses.

The lobby points to existing elevated sections on Mombasa Road and Uhuru Highway as precedents that could affect commercial areas along the proposed Thika elevated road.

Instead of a new elevated structure, MAK proposes redesigning the congested Pangani Junction with a cloverleaf interchange, improving traffic management at Khoja Roundabout, enforcing lane discipline, and adding bypass links to Kilimambogo, Tala, Kantafu and Kajiado.

The association also calls for investment in alternative mass‑transport options, including the commuter railway, high‑capacity light rail, bus rapid transit corridors, bicycle lanes and safer pedestrian facilities.

The government is concurrently modernising the 57‑kilometre Nairobi Central‑Thika commuter railway, targeting 15 stations, which MAK sees as a more immediate solution to corridor congestion.

Key details of the expressway remain unsettled, including final cost, financing model, toll rates, investor identities, operating arrangements and a definitive completion timeline.