The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has assured the public that trees cleared during the construction of the Rironi-Mau Summit Highway will be replaced through a comprehensive environmental restoration programme aimed at protecting the ecosystem.
In a statement issued on Thursday, March 5, the highways authority responded to growing concerns from members of the public regarding the felling of trees along the project corridor, saying the road expansion plan includes strict environmental management measures.
KeNHA explained that although trees are being removed to pave the way for the highway upgrade, the project incorporates a structured replanting programme designed to restore green cover and maintain ecological balance.
The authority clarified that replacement trees may not necessarily be planted in the same locations where the original trees were removed. Instead, environmental experts determine the most suitable areas for planting to ensure the survival and long-term growth of the seedlings.
Earlier this week, KeNHA announced that it plans to plant four trees for every tree cut down during the dualling of the Rironi-Mau Summit road. According to the authority, each tree removed during construction is documented to guarantee that the 1:4 replacement ratio is maintained.
The road upgrade project covers approximately 175 kilometres and is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve road safety along the key transport corridor linking Nairobi to western Kenya.
The project was launched by William Ruto in November 2025 under a Public-Private Partnership framework and is estimated to cost between KSh 170 billion and KSh 200 billion.
KeNHA said the tree restoration programme is intended to support biodiversity, improve the landscape along the highway corridor and contribute to climate change mitigation through increased carbon absorption.
Additionally, the authority noted that timber from the felled trees has been handed over to the National Youth Service (NYS) under its Corporate Social Investment initiative to promote responsible resource utilization.