In the face of public outrage, Roads Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has staunchly defended the government’s decision to increase the road maintenance levy from Sh18 to Sh25 per litre.
During a Senate question session earlier this week, Chirchir emphasized that the hike is essential for maintaining Kenya’s expanding road infrastructure.
“I would not be exaggerating to say that the recent adjustment in the fuel levy rate was a critical, vital and urgent step,” Chirchir stated on Monday, warning that without this funding, the significant investments in new roads would become meaningless.
The CS highlighted that the country’s total road network has grown from 161,451 km in 2016 to 239,122 km in 2024, but emphasized challenges posed by an ageing infrastructure and a substantial backlog in maintenance.
He noted, “For the 2024-25 financial year, the cost of essential road maintenance activities for national roads is Sh157 billion,” while the anticipated fuel levy collection stands at only Sh79 billion, creating a deficit of Sh78 billion.
Chirchir addressed public concerns over the potential rise in the cost of living due to the levy increase, assuring listeners that timely maintenance is crucial to avoid a decline in road conditions.
“Most Kenyans expect that the significant gains made in the condition and extent of the road network…should not fall into disrepair,” he added.
The ministry is also planning legislative adjustments to earmark part of the levy for maintenance, aiming to improve the state of rural roads going forward.
