By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, August 19, 2026 - The Government has mobilised KSh139 billion to clear outstanding bills owed to road contractors and speed up stalled projects across the country.
Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said on Tuesday that payments for eligible works from the last quarter will begin on August 21 and be completed by August 28, 2026.
The disbursement is part of efforts to ease cash flow challenges that have slowed down construction and left hundreds of contractors unpaid.
“Payments for eligible works from the last quarter will begin on August 21 and be completed by August 28, 2026,” Chirchir said.
The CS said the Government has already paid about KSh175 billion in certified road-sector obligations under Phase I of its financing programme, covering eligible claims up to March 2026.
He assured contractors that payments would only be processed for works that are properly measured, verified and certified.
“There should be no middlemen and no preferential treatment,” Mr Chirchir said. “Engineers must only certify work they can professionally defend.”
He urged contractors to remain on site and accelerate implementation, adding that the Government’s priority is to provide predictable financing while ensuring value for money.
The CS also directed road agencies to improve project preparation, including designs, site investigations and verification of quantities, to prevent cost overruns and incomplete works.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Roads Eng. Joseph Mbugua, Kenya National Highways Authority Director General Eng. Luka Kimeli, Kenya Rural Roads Authority Director General Eng. Jackson Magondu and Kenya Roads Board Director General Mrs. Judith Otsyula.
The KSh139 billion payout is expected to revive hundreds of road projects that have stalled due to funding delays, and restore contractor confidence in public works.
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