Behind every kilometre of tarmac is a sequence of technical processes that determine the strength, durability and safety of a road.
Along the Kopasi River–Lomut–Sigur–Marich Pass Road, engineers and laboratory personnel are working to ensure that the ongoing upgrade meets the required construction standards while opening up a strategic transport link across the North Rift.
The 31.4-kilometre Lot Three section runs from Kopasi River through Lomut and Sigur to Marich Pass. It is part of a wider transport corridor connecting Nakuru to communities in Baringo and West Pokot.
Engineer Julius Owino, an Engineer working with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), oversees key technical aspects of the project, including geometric design, culvert levels and bridge works.
The section includes three major bridges: Parkino Bridge, measuring 50 metres; Chepkuikui Bridge, also 50 metres; and the 131-metre Murunji River Bridge.
The project has achieved 56.5 per cent progress, with approximately 12 kilometres already tarmacked. Earthworks are 90 per cent complete, placing much of the construction activity at an advanced stage.
Quality assurance is central to the process. Josephine Naliaka, a laboratory technician attached to the project, says her responsibility is to ensure that materials used in construction comply with KeNHA specifications.
Her work includes testing gravel and monitoring stabilisation, where cement is added to strengthen the road material.
