Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has announced a major milestone for Nairobi’s public transport system following the approval of €320 million in financing for the Clean Core Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line 3 by the European Investment Bank (EIB), French Development Agency (AFD), and the European Union (EU).
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the funding partners, Sakaja hailed the project as a transformative step toward easing traffic congestion and promoting eco-friendly urban mobility in the city.
“This funding represents a significant boost to Nairobi’s transportation infrastructure. Our partners—the EIB, AFD, and EU—have approved €320 million financing for the Clean Core BRT Line 3. This is a historic moment for our city,” he said.
The project’s first phase will see the construction of a 12-kilometer route traversing the city from Dandora to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) along Juja Road. The second phase will extend the network further, connecting Tala to Dandora in the east and KNH to Ngong in the west.
The Clean Core BRT system is designed to provide an efficient, reliable, and sustainable public transport alternative for Nairobi residents, with electric buses at its core. The initiative aligns with the county’s broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the quality of urban life.
Governor Sakaja emphasized the economic and environmental benefits of the project. “This isn’t just about buses; it’s about transforming how our people live, work, and move. Cleaner, safer, and more efficient transportation will uplift the livelihoods of millions of Nairobians.”
The funding approval follows months of negotiations between Nairobi County and international development partners. Preliminary designs and feasibility studies for the BRT project have already been completed, with construction expected to commence in early 2025.
The BRT system is part of Nairobi’s larger urban mobility plan, which includes improved pedestrian infrastructure, non-motorized transport options, and integrating smart technology to manage traffic flow.
With Nairobi struggling to combat perennial traffic congestion, the Clean Core BRT system is expected to reduce commute times significantly, benefiting both residents and businesses.
As construction gears up, Governor Sakaja called on stakeholders to support the project. “This is a partnership for Nairobi’s future. We are determined to deliver a world-class transport system for our people.”
The announcement signals a new chapter for Nairobi’s urban planning and is seen as a model for other African cities grappling with similar challenges.
